A gift that notes the special relationship between a dad and his children doesn't need to be expensive. But when thing about a gift for their father, most young children focus on their wants and needs, and not necessarily the needs of their dad. As children get older, their perspective broadens, and they do a better job at taking the recipient into account when buying the gift. If you're helping your kids buy a gift for their dad, focus on his interests and your children are sure to find a gift that will delight.
Memento
Birthday gifts that capture a moment in the life of a child as he grows can be especially meaningful from young children. Making a memento that focuses on the size of the child is relatively easy. The child can make a plate with his hand prints at a local craft or ceramic painting store (see Resources). Or you can purchase a kit so that each child can make a ceramic impression of a hand or foot (see Resources).
Projects Made by Hand
Children make myriad art projects at school, many of which can be designed as a gift for their dad. If a school project won't suffice, have your child make a picture of the family or a favorite thing she likes to do with her dad using arts and craft supplies from home. If the child is in the later elementary grades, she can write a poem or a story about her dad and include a picture she has drawn to accompany the story.
Relationship Retrospective
Kids can also focus on a gift for their dad that highlights moments in their relationships. They can create a scrapbook of family memories, collecting ticket stubs, programs and school pictures and putting them in order. Or they can write a story about their dad and have it mounted and framed.
Favorite Hobby or Activity
Children can also consider their dad's favorite hobby. Perhaps he loves to golf; in this case, they can either buy him some inexpensive golf accessories or offer to go the driving range or play a full round with him to have some special time together.
They can also consider purchasing items that they know their dad will enjoy, such as a wine of the month club membership for the oenophile, or season tickets to the local college team if their dad loves sports. If their dad has everything he needs, the kids can consider donating to his alma mater or a charity in his honor (see Resources).
