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| Avoid the socks and jocks this Father's Day |
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On Sunday 4 September we celebrate Father's Day in Australia. This annual occasion, which has been marked for more than 100 years, gives families an excellent excuse to pause for a moment and reflect on the important role that dads have in families.
The increasing commercialisation of special occasions like Father's Day, means it is easy to go crazy and spend big on extravagant gifts for the special dad in your life. However, is this really the most meaningful way to share the day?
Take a moment and have a think about what the dad in your life really enjoy and what makes him truly happy; if this happens to be a new pair of socks then by all means head to the store, but if you are looking for something a little different this year, then why not consider one of the suggestions below:
Start off on the right foot
Give the dad in your life the best possible chance of having a fabulous day by starting the day right. Let him sleep in as long as he wants, remember to say Happy Father's Day, when he does emerge, give him a hand made card and any gifts and explain the plans for the day. Remove any pressure to do anything or be anywhere and just enjoy being a family.
A surprise picnic
The hurly burly of small children makes it tricky to find quality time together as a family. If you struggle to find a spare moment in your schedule then make a point of advance planning a free day this Father's Day. Eliminate all obligations, put together a simple picnic and head somewhere you all love for a mini break. Planning a simple feast outdoors means you won't need to book a table and means you can relax while the kids run themselves ragged.
Family hobby
If the dad in your life has a particular passion (think tennis, golf, fishing, watching live sport, bush walking etc) that he usually does on his own, or with a male friend, then plan a modified version of the day which you can all do as a family. Obviously involving children may mean you have to scale back your expectations, but taking a zero pressure approach and making it about having a go, will make it fun for everyone.
Organise a mini-family reunion
If you are lucky enough to have family close by, but don’t see them very often, then surprise the dad in your life with a mini-family get together. This doesn't need to be an extravagant affair, just a simple family brunch or a gathering in your local park is perfect.
Share a special experience
If you have money to spend on a family outing then consider doing something none of you have ever done before (dependent on the ages and stages of your kids); whale watching, a tree top zip line tour, go karting, ice skating, laser skirmish, surfing lessons, bowling, a balloon ride, horse riding, cooking lessons or a trip to a local wildlife park. Making a commitment to organise an experience like this every year for Father's Day is a wonderful way to create special memories and a new family tradition.
A unique gift
If the dad in your life loves nothing more than unwrapping a gift, then think outside the box this Father’s Day to source a truly memorable gift. For men who like to cook then avoid bbq paraphernalia and think about an ice cream maker, a cheese making course or a fantastic new knife set.
For green fingered dads, how about the unique Wollemi Pine or a perfect little bonsai? For sporty dads how about a voucher for one-on-one training session with a pro (wrapped in a big box of course). For gadget dads, avoid screens and think about something a little more active like a drone or a remote control helicopter or plane.
Date night
Father's Day is about celebrating the role men have as dads, but is also a great opportunity to thank your man for being your friend and partner. If the budget allows, book a babysitter and spend some quality time together as a couple, have a meal, see a band, watch a movie, go dancing, go to a comedy gig or see a play together. This will be even more special if you plan it as a surprise and could be the start of another new family tradition!
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