Father’s Day Gifts
Selecting a gift for dad is as simple as thinking about what his hobbies are, what he likes to eat, and what his tastes in clothing are. Consider what he did as a child, teenager, and young adult. Draw from his cultural background. Think about what he talks when he talks about his past.
When choosing the perfect gift for Father’s Day, try to select gifts that emphasize his strengths and not his weaknesses. For example, if he has excellent vocabulary and spelling skills, buy him a few crossword puzzle books. However, if he is a terrible speller and has a somewhat limited handle on vocabulary, avoid purchasing a dictionary as a gift.
Even though a gift might be purchased and given with good intentions, it isn’t always received with a smile. Making dad smile should be a priority, and therefore, the gift should be something that dad will appreciate as much as you appreciate him.
The Typical Gifts
�· Ties- This is actually a nice gift for the man who likes to wear different ties.
�· Handkerchiefs- These are nice to replace every few years or so.
�· Wallets- Contrary to popular thought, men do not change their wallets as frequently as women change their handbags.
�· Socks- Specially designed dry wick and thermal socks are popular items for the outdoorsman, and these make excellent gifts. However, although socks may seem like a good idea, steer away from this one unless you know for a fact that the gift will be a big hit.
Ã?· Shirts- When deciding to purchase a shirt for a father’s day gift, select a shirt that will receive more than a one-time use. Try and choose a shirt that dad can wear to work so that it will get lots of wear (and compliments, too!)
Gifts That Make Life Easier For Dad
�· Rechargeable flashlight- Imagine how much time can be saved by dad if he does not need to look for batteries.
�· Remote Caddy- Simplify life by providing a one stop location for the television remote for your father so that he always knows where to look for it. Remote caddies are available in various motifs, including football, baseball, and more.
Ã?· Map or map program- If dad is old-fashioned, then purchasing one of the old-fashioned fold-up maps for dad to keep in the car is a great idea (especially if dad consistently gets lost while driving.) However, try purchasing one of the map programs that are available for computers to put a smile on dad’s face.
The Themed Gift
Ã?· Fishing – Fishermen never seem to have enough equipment. Avoid replacing dad’s tackle box, unless he has mentioned wanting another one. Some men develop an affinity for their sports equipment and dread replacing it with something new. Instead, purchase a medley of fishing supplies, such as bait, fishing hooks and line, and maybe even a spare fishing pole.
�· Computer- Gift certificates to a store that carries computer equipment and software is an excellent choice. However, if you know which game or program dad really wants, simply pick it up ahead of time and include a smaller gift certificate.
�· Gaming- Many fathers happily enjoy playing electronic gaming systems. Select a two-player game as a gift that you both can enjoy. You should be sure that the game is one that he will enjoy or that he has mentioned. Purchasing an additional controller is often a splendid idea as well.
Ã?· Science- If dad is into the stars and planets and doesn’t already have one, purchase a telescope. Videos and books are great choices as well for the dad who likes to keep up with the science angle of the world.
�· Travel- Pick up a few brochures from a travel agency. Include an IOU for a weekend stay for a destination of his choice. Hopefully, he takes you with him!
Ã?· Sports- Purchase season’s tickets for his favorite sports team. If the price is too rich, consider acquiring a smaller package for select nights.
Ã?· Golf- Golfer’s always seem to need a few new balls. Many stores offer monogrammed balls that create a personalized gift sure to be appreciated by dad.
The Unique Gift
�· The Basket- This gift does not actually have to be a basket. Use anything that seems appropriate- a duffle bag, a plastic storage tote, and even a toolbox. Collect several different items that dad will use and appreciate, and toss them all together in the container that you have chosen. Take the time to actually think about this gift so that it works and portrays the caring and love that you put into it.
�· Theme ideas- Bookends, books, and gift certificates to a bookstore; stylish pen set, journal, day planner, magazine subscription; Swiss knife, key chain, wallet with cash inside, and mini- flashlight; and movie tickets, boxes of his favorite movie type candy, and gift certificates to the snack bar at the theater make excellent themed gift ideas for the father in your life.
The Desperate Gift
Ã?· Money- When time is short, the idea factory isn’t working, or dad already has everything he could possibly want, a gift of money is appropriate. Be creative and give dad a gift of one-dollar bills that add up to his age. Purchase an uncirculated coin set for that year to give as a gift. Don’t write a check, because that will make the gift seem very impersonal.
The Truly Sentimental Gift
�· Photograph album- Put together a photo album just for dad. Select one that is manly in appearance or has a theme unique to dad.
Ã?· Collage- Create a memory collage and use pictures from each year to date. Select ones with special moments attached to them, including previous father’s days.
�· Hand crafted item- Make something for dad that he can use. It will have special meaning if it is hand crafted by you. Knit a scarf, make a wooden shelf, or crochet a blanket with a pattern that he will appreciate, such as his favorite sports team.
Buying a father’s day gift happens every year for many of us. Try and alternate your choices so that the gift is always a surprise with a delightful response.
