New fathers often get overlooked as activity and attention seem to center around the mothers and newborn babies. Fathers are important, too, so offer a personal gift chosen to show him how special he is. According to Roland Warren, the director of National Fatherhood Initiative, fathers are vital in the development of their children. Being a dad can be overwhelming because of all the responsibilities attached. Let him know how proud you are of his ability to live up to the tasks he faces.
Father-Child Collage
Gather pictures taken of Dad with his baby at different times, from immediately after delivery to the most current. Group them in a collage, and frame it to match his office or favorite room in the house.
Father-Child Sports Apparel
Most college and professional athletic teams offer apparel in all sizes, including infant. Purchase matching jerseys, ball caps or socks for the new father and his baby. He’ll be proud to show off his favorite sport and child at the same time.
Gift of Service
Give the new father who wants to spend time with his baby rather than cutting the grass the gift of leisure time. Offer to mow his lawn for a month, or hire someone else to do it. The same concept will work for other chores, from cleaning house to handy work. Take these responsibilities away for awhile so the dad can spend that time bonding with his child.
Baby Foot or Handprints
Dip the baby’s hands, feet or both into nontoxic paint, and make prints on paper or a T-shirt in the father’s size. If the new father will wear the T-shirt, include an additive that keeps the paint from washing out of the shirt during laundering.
Tree of Life
Plant a tree on the day of the baby’s birth. As the tree grows, so does the child. Each year, something can be added to the tree, such as a swing for Dad and the child or a bench so Dad can watch his child play.
Video of Dad and His Newborn
Videotape the father and his child during special moments the first few weeks of life. Include one of him holding the baby immediately after birth, one of him changing a diaper and one of him watching his child sleep.
Father’s Day Cake
If you’re good with icing, decorate a special cake for the new Dad to show how much you think of him. Create a design on the cake that reflects his special interest. If he’s a golfer, make a putting green. For the football enthusiasts, create a field with goalposts. Add a special greeting or sentiment in icing specifically for him.
