Parenting is no walk in the park, and sometimes it feels like the cards are stacked against us: work, dealing with tantrums (be it your toddler or tween), laundry, inflation on just about everything. That’s why it is more important than ever to offer some positive reinforcement… to yourself! We talked to the experts and came up with 15 positive affirmations to write down, display, or pull out on the days or in the moments when you need a lift.
Why positive affirmations can make you a better parent
We asked renowned parenting expert Reena B. Patel why positive affirmations matter. Patel, who is also a licensed educational psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and the author of Winnie & Her Worries, reminds us that positive affirmations are rooted in positive psychology. “Positive, simple statements help shift your focus away from perceived failures and direct your focus toward your strengths,” says Patel. “We believe and act upon what we think, thus leading to self-fulfilling prophecies if we focus only on what we are not good at. There is power in positive thinking. Positive emotions are linked with better health, longer life, and greater well-being.”
Patel also suggests that, whenever possible, parents try to state their affirmation while looking at themselves in the mirror, and by saying the statement multiple times a day (at least three is ideal). Use positive “I’ statements and place a visual of the words in an area that you can see daily as a reminder, she adds.
1. I am a good parent. It’s easy to criticize ourselves and focus on how we think we’re failing as a mom or dad. But parenting is tough, and we’re all doing the best we can. Acknowledge that fact, and tell yourself out loud, every day, that you’re a good parent.
2. Loving myself is the greatest gift I can give to my child. Kids are sponges and they learn from us. So if your kiddos know you appreciate yourself, they will learn to love themselves. That’s one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids.
3. I’m not perfect. We all know that nobody is perfect. But we place a big expectation on ourselves as parents to be pretty close to it. Repeating that mantra is a great reminder that it’s okay to be human, not to be perfect.
4. I can only control myself. It’s so hard, but one of the best ways to help kids grow emotionally is to exhibit mature behavior. Debbie Pincus,MS LMHC, says, “When we react emotionally to our kids and lose control, we’re allowing our kids to determine how we behave rather than the other way around.” Next time your kid throws a massive fit, try to stay calm and see what happens.
5. I am willing to learn and grow. Patel reminds us that it is critical to embrace change and growth, even when things seem tough. After all, it’s what we’d tell our kids, right? 6. Today is a new day. It’s easy to focus on how yesterday was a bad day. Sanah Rizvi, the founder of The Psych Way, suggests shifting the self-talk to focus on how every day is a chance to make progress toward what you want and the person you want to be.
7. I’m doing the best I can do. At the end of the day, that’s all we can do. Repeating that mantra every day will help you accept it as truth.
8. I make good decisions for my kids. This positive affirmation is a tough one to remember, especially when little ones are very vocal about making their displeasure with our decisions known. Parent Trust points out that moms and dads know they’re making the right choices for their kids. Embrace it and repeat the statement to yourself as a reminder.
9. I’m going easy on myself today. Permit yourself to take it easy. Say it out loud and grow comfortable with the idea.
10. It’s okay to ask for help, and what’s more, I deserve it. It’s time to take control of your needs and be OKAY with asking for help. You’ll be surprised to find out how many people are willing to step up if you just ask them.
11. Parenting is exhausting. Every parent knows this statement to be true. Writer Lauren Tamm suggests repeating this mantra as a reminder that taking care of kids is hard work. No wonder we’re so tired at the end of the day!
12. I am loved. Motherhood can be a thankless job, and little ones aren’t known for their compliments. Parent coach and family therapist Nicole Schwarz reminds moms that even though their kids may not say it, they really do feel that way. You just may need to put words to it.
13. I am what my kiddo needs. At the end of the day, there’s nothing else that’s as true as that statement.
14. It won’t always be like this. The one thing we know for sure is that hardships always pass. From colicky babies to navigating social media with tweens, one day, you’ll find yourself on the other side.
15. I do not need to compare. ” I know my kids the best, and comparisons do not serve me. If I notice myself comparing, I will quickly let it go,” Patel says. And that’s a lead worth following.
This classic Matt Damon SNL skit is so real, we feel attacked
Christmas is a magical time, but making all that magic happen isn’t exactly a walk in the park for parents. At some point after you’ve dressed your (unwilling) kids in holiday outfits for photos but before you fake-smile about the one and only gift you received (surprise! It’s a robe), parents have a jam-packed day of fun… starting at around 5:41 a.m.
In this classic “Best Christmas Ever” SNL skit, guest host Matt Damon and Cecily Strong play parents reminiscing about how truly awesome their day was—and giving some behind-the-scenes peeks into what spreading yuletide cheer really looks like for moms and dads.
There’s the child-present-attacking ritual long before the coffee hits, a flashback to Dad struggling to assemble a giant playhouse in the wee hours of the night, and kids fighting and shouting over their newfound spoils.
But that doesn’t even come close to the madness of hosting the family. Relatives who complain upon arrival? Check! Those who can’t stop spouting off about their political views? Check! So just how does one cope with so much delight? Mom claims, “I guess I was just full of Christmas cheer!” when shots clearly show she was fueling up with something else: wine and the occasional hidden cigarette.
Hands up if you can relate! A dad of four himself, Damon is probably no stranger to the joys of putting together impossible-to-assemble toys on Christmas Eve and being awakened before the sun rises to the screams of over-excited kids on Christmas morning.
Here’s to all the exhausted moms and dads making this Christmas the best Christmas ever, too.
The next 10 episodes of Bluey season three are landing on Disney+ on January 12, 2024
Crikey! The long-awaited next batch of Bluey season three episodesare making their way to Disney+! What feels like forever ago, BBC Studios and Disney first announced that the show would be returning for a third season set to premiere on Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney+ in all territories outside of Australia, New Zealand, and China. But parents and kids immediately noticed that there were fewer episodes compared to seasons past.
According to The Independent, it was always the plan to release season three in two batches. The first half was dropped in the form of 25 episodes on August 10th, 2022, followed by a surprise drop in July 2023. But now… there’s more! The newest set of episodes is set to debut on Disney+ on January 12, 2024, and will continue to feature beloved pint-sized heroine Bluey, an energetic six-year-old Heeler who lives with her dad, mum, and four-year-old little sister, Bingo.
Per Bluey.tv, viewers will tag along on a relaxing family trip to the beach, a quest to find a dragon, and a friendly neighborhood game of cricket. There are also hints about a backyard workout session and a new waterslide (what could go wrong?!) One thing’s for sure: There will be plenty of meaningful messages woven throughout all the silly hijinks. Take a look at the newest season three episodes in the following trailer:
“The relatable, heartfelt, and humorous storytelling in Bluey continues to captivate our young audiences and their families. We can’t wait to bring a third season of the show to our viewers across the globe,” says Jane Gould, Executive Vice President, Content Research, Insights & Scheduling, Disney General Entertainment.
As if the new batch wasn’t exciting enough, there’s also a special 28-minute episode, entitled ‘The Sign’, dropping sometime in 2024. It will air globally on the ABC in Australia and Disney+ around the world, but we’ll have to keep a watchful eye for an exact arrival date.
We’re here to celebrate the Big Guy himself (no, not Santa). Make his holiday merry with these gifts for dad
Whether they’re helping to put together new toys, busy in the kitchen playing host to the whole family, or making sure all the wrapping paper gets picked up, dads are just the greatest. Biological or not, these father figures keep our worlds spinning—but they’re also notoriously difficult to buy for. (Finding gifts for dad is no small feat!)
We made sure to put together a cool collection of worthy-for-our-hero gifts that go beyond the usual necktie or socks (not that there’s anything wrong with those!). From the grillmaster to the nostalgic, we’ve got every type of dad covered. He really is the best, so make sure he knows it with these gifts for dad below.
This cooler-chair combo is brilliant. An insulated under-chair compartment, interchangeable cup holder, hands-free carrying, and 5 cool designs make this a gift he'll use all the time.
This viral (yes, viral! Just ask TikTok.) knife sharpener is like nothing we've ever seen before. Use the roller to slide the knife blade at two different labeled angles for the sharpest knives ever.
This kit has everything he needs for his next travel adventure. TSA-versions of the best Duke Cannon products, all tucked neatly in a clear travel bag.
Share joy. Connect generations. Do it all privately. Tinybeans is the photo sharing app that makes sharing your pictures with only the people you want to see them easy. You can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. There's no better time of year to capture memories.
Black zirconium and silver Fender guitar string inlay make this ring the ultimate in style. Dad not really a music guy? No problem. Manly Bands also has a DC Collection, a Lord of the Rings Collection, and more, so you'll find the perfect match.
This set comes complete with 6 craft whiskey samples (enough for 2 people to share!), a printed guide, a video review of whiskey-tasting techniques, and more to create a whole experience at home.
HOKA's 9th edition of the Clifton sneaker is their lightest and most comfortable yet. It's perfect for everyday walking and running, and there's a reason HOKA is so popular; they've received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. They also last such a long time.
The world-famous chef-approved hedley&bennett creates professional aprons for home chefs, too. This Bravo's Top Chef collab design is one of our faves, but there are so many to choose from.
Built in 1962 and moved to the Catskills in the early '80s, Phoenicia Diner is an icon. So it stands to reason that their famous pancake mix is going to be a welcome breakfast addition.
For the football fanatic in your life, this collector's book will quickly become a prized possession, thanks to the storytelling and incredible photographs included.
California-based Stereoscope Coffee creates a coffee subscription service with blends hand-picked by a Q-grader (consider them certified coffee experts) for a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly delivery of coffee that best represents Stereoscope. Roasted in L.A.
Give the gift of having everything he could possibly need in the palm of his hands—er, on his wrist. From keeping up with texts and calls to heart rate monitoring and reminders, Apple Watch does it all.
Tom Bumble Candy Bars are a swirl of organic crunchy peanut butter, pure Madagascar vanilla, and organic sugar, wrapped up in fair-trade dark chocolate. This isn't your average candy bar.
With over 4,000 pieces, this LEGO set is perfect for any President/Lord Business-types out there (minus the Kraggle, of course). The roof comes off to reveal several exhibit rooms, there's an Apotsaurus fossil to put together, and several minifigures come with the set, too.
Unspillable? This can cooler from Toadfish is. It'll stick to any smooth surface and stay upright, on top of keeping beverages cold. Comes in 4 colors.
The folks over at Fuego Box have pledged to plant 5 trees for every crate sold, so you can feel extra good about gifting this selection of spicy blossom honey, Ghost Pepper–infused Himalayan pink salt, and three hot sauces: an everyday red, a punchy verde, and a very vinegary Carolina Reaper.
Don't let him worry about an overheating phone ever again. NASA-derived tech that keeps your phone from overheating and keeps its battery from draining too quickly in the cold. It also case floats in water so it can be grabbed out of the pool fast, and it exceeds military-grade shock and impact protection when dropped.
Family Game Night won't ever be the same, thanks to this board game subscription box. Just choose the subscription plan you'd like to gift and give them something to look forward to with every delivery.
The lightweight design with padded shoulder straps allows for ultimate portability and versatility with this cooler swing. It's also rugged enough to withstand whatever nature-lovers throw at it.
Using Stance's proprietary cotton blend, these iconic socks have a longer lifespan than your run-of-the-mill socks and offer light cushioning for a secure fit and oh-so-comfortable feel.
'Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir' by Bob Odenkirk
Amazon
It's possible you've only really fallen in love with Bob Odenkirk from his Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul days, but he's done so much over the years. Read all about it in this memoir.
Nothing can go wrong when you combine BBQ and bacon, and these melt-in-your-mouth Bacon Burnt Ends from Heim BBQ in Ft. Worth, TX are 2lbs (!!) of indulgent.
Curated by Spoke Art Gallery in San Francisco, this artwork inspired by the films of Wes Anderson ranges from paintings to sculptures to limited-edition screen prints from some of the director's most beloved films.
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Night lights are the secret superheroes of kids’ bedrooms. They have the ability to calm, chase away monsters, and allow parents to sneak into the room without bashing a knee, and inadvertently wake a sleeping babe. And, really, the whole house can benefit from some nighttime glow. Of course, each room and each family member is going to need a different version of the best night light. From bathrooms to the kitchen to the nursery and tween bedrooms, one size definitely doesn’t fit all here.
Between bathroom trips, kitchen runs (that cold pizza isn’t going to just eat itself, right?), and checking on kids of all ages before you turn in for the night, night lights are a must. So whether you are in the market for nursery lamps, nursery lights, or even a projector, here are some of the greatest options for everyone in the whole house—and where to find them.
This night light by parent-trusted brand Hatch has a trifecta of features. In addition to the soothing night light, the Hatch Rest 2nd Gen also has a sound machine and a time-to-rise setting (clutch when your baby turns into an early-rising toddler). The best part? It can be controlled from your phone so if you need to turn the brightness or music up or down, you don't have to sneak into the room and interrupt that precious sleep schedule.
If your little one likes to get out of bed and you know, hover over your face until you wake up, this night light will help lead the way...safely. Lightweight and handy, this on-the-go night light comes with three different light settings—your kid can pick the brightness to keep them company while they make their way to you in the night.
This projector night light is like having your very own nightly light show, all in the comfort of your bedroom. Features include 360-degree rotation, both remote and touch control, timer setting and 12 lullaby songs.
For kids who love cuddling with a menagerie of animals, this sweet bunny-shaped night light will send your tot's room into cuteness overload. Features include 8 different light options, a sleep timer (but can also last 12-20 hours if needed) and is chew safe (for all those mouth-curious kids out there).
Made of ceramic, this sweet rainbow night light plugs into the outlet (so old school!) and emits just the right amount of light for those kids who need a little something something in their room.
Add a lot of personality and funk to your kid's room with a neon sign that not only can be used as a night light when the sun sets but also doubles as wall art. Not into dinosaurs? They have loads of pre-made signs to choose from, or, if you'd like, order a custom sign for your kid—perhaps their name in lights?
Every tween and teen loves a string of fairy lights (we know, they're "too old" for night lights) but this set lights up the night with an added bonus—clear photo clips that can hold up to 50 of their favorite polaroids, postcards, notes and more.
If they're going through a phase of bathroom scaries, or even if your older kids just hate turning on the overhead light in the middle of the night to use the restroom, this soft light plug-in LED night light is a win. Pick from 8 different colors with dawn-to-dusk sensors, so they'll never be on when they're not needed, either. This is a 2 pack, too, so you'll be able to cover more than one bathroom.
Whether it's a drink of water or that last slice of cake, middle-of-the-night kitchen runs are totally common. To avoid altering the neighborhood by turning on ultra-bright kitchen lights, try these strip lights under cabinets or counters. They're rechargeable and come with magnetic strips for easy install and all you have to do is pop the light off the strip when it's time to recharge. You can set them to constantly on or motion-activated.
Amazon
Best Night Light to Promote Sleep for the Whole Family
From kids to their parents, these sleep-promoting night lights emit a diffused long-wavelength LED red light that promotes restful sleep and may help melatonin production. Available in a 2 pack.
—Gabby Cullen, Andie Huber, & Kate Cartia
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Contact your state elections office or just ask a friendly poll worker about rules and limitations on bringing your children along with you to the voting booth
Election Day is almost here and…well, maybe you have a preschooler, toddler, or newborn in tow. Now what? Um, go ahead and bring your kid with you to vote! Yep, that’s right. Take your pint-sized politician (in the future sense, of course) into the booth.
Many parents wonder if they’re legally allowed to bring their children with them into the voting booth. Even though this civic duty is a highly private one, the government allows minor children to accompany their voting parents in every state. That said, some states have their own laws setting maximum ages for kids who can come into the voting booth.
Don’t worry, your kindergarten kiddo can still go with you. States that do have age restrictions have set limits that are well into the teenage years. But keep in mind that each state has different rules, so ask questions and be prepared. In Virginia, for example, only children 15 years old and younger are allowed in the booths, according to NBC News. The same goes for Connecticut. But in California and other states, parents can bring along any minor under the age of 18.
If you’re not sure what the legal maximum age for a child accompanying a parent into a voting booth is, just ask. Call your state’s elections office before you go, or just ask the helpful friendly faces at your local polling place when you arrive. Go in knowing that every. single. state. in the country allows parents to bring their minor children into the voting booth with them, so if a poll worker turns you and your child away, remind them of their state’s laws not only dictating voting booth rules, but also voter suppression.
Along with age restrictions, some states also have total child maximums. Depending on your state, the law may limit the number of kids you bring into the booth to one or two. Again, always ask ahead of time. If you have three kids and your state only allows two, consider setting up an Election Day babysitting collective in your community or bring a friend with you to vote.
Okay, so what happens if your toddler throws a tantrum while you’re waiting in line to vote? Disrupting the voting process is a no-no. If your child’s not-so-pleasant behavior is impeding others from voting, distracting them, or causing problems for the other voters, polling place helpers could ask you to leave. Hey, you can go back to vote later on—after the babysitter comes.
So here’s the big question, “Why should you bring your kids with you to vote?” Taking your kids into the voting booth gives them a chance to see democracy in action and encourages them to think critically about what’s in the news. According to a study by the University of Chicago, nearly half of young people aged 15 to 25 get news at least once a week from family and friends via Twitter or Facebook. And it can be difficult to tell fact from fiction. One of the study’s conclusions is: “Youth must learn how to judge the credibility of online information and how to find divergent views on varied issues.”
There’s no reason to wait until they’re 18 (and of legal voting age) to start talking about their civic rights and responsibilities. Going into the voting booth with mom or dad makes our country’s political process concrete and tangible for them, helping your young child to better understand it.
There you go—kids plus voting is a win-win situation. Happy voting!
These should all make an appearance in future father-son talks
From simple, everyday interactions to more serious, big-picture issues, there are important life lessons we dads can—and should—share to help a young boy grow into a courageous, honorable, and kind adult. That said, we realize that not all families include fathers, so these words of wisdom for a father-son talk apply to any parent figure who wants to help their child stand a little taller and do good in the world.
I’ll always be here for you. Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. Reminding your son that you always are available to him and mindful of his needs will go a long way in establishing and building trust over time. Mindful parenting means being present in the moment and aware of what’s happening. Modeling positive, supportive behavior while your son is young will show him that good men are reliable and responsible.
Treat others with compassion and empathy. The Golden Rule may be a simple principle to follow, but teaching empathy can provide a deeper framework for how people should behave regardless of circumstance. Fostering empathy can help young boys to find commonalities between themselves and others who are seemingly different—and encourages them to positively and proactively think about and care for others.
Winning is great, but losing with grace and humility is just as important. Good sportsmanship is a beneficial trait that goes well beyond what happens on the playing field. By teaching our sons how to win and lose with dignity, we’re giving them strong interpersonal relationship skills that will serve them well in many other aspects of their lives besides sports. Telling them that the main point of competition is to have fun will alleviate the feeling of needing to win at any cost, and allows them to enjoy themselves.
Surround yourself with people you admire. Dads can’t always pick our son’s friends, but we can encourage them to choose their friendships wisely. Find out who your son admires and who his heroes are, and you’ll quickly discover the kinds of people he wants to emulate. Real friendships are fundamental in early childhood development, so teaching our sons how to find good friends and be good friends will help guide them in the right direction.
I can teach you how to throw a punch, but never start a fight… and always know when to walk away. A parent should teach their son when to stand their ground and when to walk away. Establishing a baseline that it’s never appropriate to hurt others for no reason is a critical, essential first step.
Never make an important decision on an empty stomach. Over the course of a young boy’s life, he’ll have to make many important decisions. These are just warm-ups to the big ones that he’ll have to make as an adult, and every dad knows that important decisions should never be made on an empty stomach. There’s a science to explain why people become grumpy or have poorer judgment when they are hungry. Remind your kid to have a full belly before making any major decisions.
It’s OK to play with dolls. Or dress up as Beyoncé. Or sing like Beyoncé. Or dance like Beyoncé. By the time most boys are five years old, they’ve already learned lots of things that perpetuate toxic masculinity. Break the cycle by letting your son know that there are no such things as “girls-only toys” or “girls-only behaviors.” Instead, teach your son that there’s more than one way to be a man.
Honesty matters.
Whether it’s telling the truth about a broken window/bike/toy or speaking up against bullies, honestly is always the best policy.
What was the best part of your day? At the end of a long day of work and school, many dads will simply ask their sons, “How was your day?” And the typical response is a bluntly delivered, “Fine.” Rather than try to start a conversation with a generic question, be specific. Avoid questions that can be answered with a single word. As our kids get older—particularly as they enter their tween and teen years—they may be less inclined to volunteer information about what’s happening in their lives. Asking pointed questions will help tease out what’s really going on and what’s really on their minds.
Let’s talk about sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Because if you’re not the person who’s initiating conversations with your son about topics as important as these, then someone else inevitably will, and that someone else may not always have your kid’s best interests in mind. There are plenty of resources to help parents talk to their kids about sensitive and sometimes awkward topics. At the very least, make sure your son has a handle on the basics from the school of rock.
I’m so lucky that I get to be your dad. And while you’re at it, tell your son that you love him every day, and give him lots of hugs and kisses, especially while he’s still young so that he gets used to receiving affection from (and giving it to) his old man.
While we don’t recommend quitting your day job and taking these corny jokes on the road (do people still throw rotten tomatoes?), we do promise that if delivered with enough enthusiasm—or by an undeniably cute kid—these cheesy jokes will get some chuckles. And, when you’re done with these, be sure to share our favorite knock-knock jokes, summer jokes, funny dad jokes, and our ultimate list of jokes for kids that are always good for a laugh.
Q: Why did the cookie go to the hospital?
A: Because he felt crummy.
Q: Why did Johnny throw the clock out of the window?
A: Because he wanted to see time fly!
Q: Why was the baby strawberry crying?
A: Because his mom and dad were in a jam.
Knock, knock
Who’s there? Theodore
Theodore who? Theodore wasn’t open so I knocked.
Q: What do lawyers wear to court?
A: Lawsuits
Q: What did one toilet say to the other toilet?
A: You look flushed.
Q: Why is there a gate around cemeteries?
A: Because people are dying to get in!
Knock, knock
Who’s there?
Cows go Cows go who?
No silly, cows go MOO.
Q: Why wouldn’t the shrimp share his treasure?
A: Because he was a little shellfish.
Q: What has one head, one foot, and four legs?
A: A Bed
Q: What do you call an angry carrot?
A: A steamed veggie.
Q: What do you call a fake noodle?
A: An impasta.
Knock, knock
Who’s there? Little old lady
Little old lady who? I didn’t know you could yodel.
Q: Why shouldn’t you write with a broken pencil?
A: Because it’s pointless.
Q: Why did the man put his money in the freezer?
A: He wanted cold hard cash!
Q: What do call cheese that isn’t yours?
A: Nacho Cheese
Show Dad the L-O-V-E this year with a crafty card made at home
Father’s Day is nearly here! To celebrate the amazing job your special dad does every day, why not celebrate with one of these homemade Father’s Day card ideas? You don’t have to be a master crafter or daring DIYer to make one, so dust off your crafting stash and check out some genius Father’s Day cards!
This adorable handmade Father’s Day card idea is pretty easy, and it’s definitely one he’ll want to keep. Have your kids pick out the character they want to use, and have fun with it.
This Bomb Pop card is a super cute and easy way to make a card your kid’s “pop” will love! Also, take the perfect opportunity to follow it up with actual yummy Bomb Pops afterward.
This homemade Father’s Day card idea perfectly fits the bill for the handyman in your life.
Cricut-Made Father's Day Card Idea
Karly Wood
Is the dad in your life into everything? This DIY card is the perfect fit! Made with a Cricut Joy, we snagged this completely free design and let this mini machine do all the work. Peppered with images of outdoor activities, and typical dad icons, this card will perfectly communicate about your fave father.
For DIY-obsessed dads, we love this easy idea from Lil’ Luna. It’s a free printable, so all you have to do is print it out, cut it out and stick it on the gift card of your choice.
Get your little one involved in making this simple homemade Father's Day card idea from Solis Plus One. Tots can go to town filling the page with color.
Emojis are so yesterday. Use sign language to tell Dad how you really feel about him. Delia Creates has designed stylish (and free) downloadable templates that your sidekick can use to choose just the right message to tell Dad how much he means to everyone. It’s almost too easy!
Timepieces like this creative fill-it-out-yourself booklet designed by Hello, Wonderful are what memories are made of. Your guy will forever cherish the innocently hilarious answers his kiddos give to creative questions like, “the most fun thing I’ve done with my dad is…” and “my dad smells like…”.
Surprise Dad when he walks through the door on his special day with this colorful card that doubles as a banner. Let him slowly pull out the greeting, like a magician pulling an endless string of hankies from his sleeve. Then hang it across the mantle, so Dad really gets the message. Skip over to Modern Parents Messy Kids for the tutorial.
This coloring superhero card by Alpha Mom is an easy-breezy option that ranks high on the cuteness factor—the best combo if we say so ourselves. The kids can customize the fill-in-the-blank section to make it their very own.
Chalk, check. Driveway, check. Adorable kids that make your photo come to life, double check. That’s everything you need to make this sweet Father’s Day card we spotted over at Crafty Texas Girls. Looking for a gift too? Have the photo turned into a mug, mousepad, or keychain!
Between a great meal, a nap, a chance to cheer for his favorite team or dad-on-kid quality time, you can keep it simple when deciding on Dad's gift this year. This printable card from Julep is ready for him to spin the wheel of wish lists and decide just what he wants most for Father’s Day. Card AND gift completed.
Celebrate the spider-killing, boo-boo-kissing guy who waits patiently at the bottom of the slide so his cutie pie can slide confidently down, knowing he’ll be there, with this well-earned jar of goodies. Let your little one decide what to fill it with. And find the free printable at Tatertots and Jello.
This bow-tie card is a keeper, especially when you take a photo of your little one holding it and turn it into a gift or (even better!) dad’s new screen saver. The template and tutorial are available at Julep. This a perfect DIY card for the three and under set—easy-peasy—just the way we like it!
Why is it that dads always seem to have everything they could ever want? Maybe they genuinely don’t want anything that they don’t already own. Or it could be just that he never really mentions wanting something specific. We think there’s a good chance he’s dropped a hint or two, but we’re pretty sure those hints are along the lines of something practical. And listen, we love our dads and our partners, but we just don’t think socks or a cordless drill backup battery really show what they mean to us. We also don’t want to know that much about drill backup batteries. That means every year, Father’s Day gift shopping can be a serious guessing game.
You’ve probably already done the tie thing. The tools thing. The iTunes gift card thing. Those are all fine, but we think we’ve come up with a few ideas you might not have thought of yet and that dad isn’t expecting. Whether he’s a sports guy, a foodie, or a fashion-forward father, we’ve done our research (just like dad taught us). There are some really cool gifts out there—or rather, right here—that are sure to excite him. So start visualizing your dad, stepdad, husband, partner, and any other dad on your list and check out these Father’s Day gifts.
Junk Food & Food Food Trivia
Brass Monkey/Amazon
Boring trivia? Not here. This delightfully pointless game covers all sorts of food knowledge from a bunch of misleading categories (like 'Hunger Games'—all about eating competitions). Junk Food & Food Food Trivia ($14.00)—Buy Here!
Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie
Bombas
Now, before you remind us that we seemed anti-socks-as-gifts, these aren't regular socks. They're Bombas. You've probably heard sock-wearers everywhere sing their praises and that's because they're honestly 100% worth it. We're guessing they're similar to walking on clouds. They also walk the walk by donating one for one. They come in multiple colors and styles, but we're fond of this 4-pack with bonus Bombas Hex Tec Sock Bag. Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gift
Omaha Steaks
If we’re already drooling, you know dad will love this gift from Omaha Steaks. Let him indulge in the tender & savory cuts of Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignons, juicy Boneless Pork Chops, flavorful PureGround Delmonico Ribeye Burgers, and much more. Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gifs (Starting at $99.00)—Buy Here!
The '80s called and Lego answered. This retro game includes Pac-Man, Blinky, Clyde, and even a light-up brick for the coin slot. It's not a fully functional game, but who needs that when you have such a cool project to complete and show off? Lego Pac-Man Arcade ($269.99)—Buy Here!
Supernatural VR
Supernatural VR
This at-home workout is perfect for multitasking dads who just don’t have enough hours in the day to make it to the gym. Busy parent of three Kelly Ripa shared that Supernatural is “everything I’ve been looking for!” when it comes to fitness, and adds that “at-home workouts are here to stay and the convenience that they elicit is hard to compete with.”
Work out in exotic locations around the globe like Machu Picchu, The Maldives, or The Great Wall of China and to today’s top artists such as Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, The Weeknd, and more! Every day, a new workout is released and for those who aren’t in a fitness routine yet, there is an option for every fitness-level so everyone can move, have fun and feel rewarded. Along with a range of intensities, workouts include four different modalities—Flow (Cardio), Stretching, Meditation, and Boxing. Supernatural is available on Meta Quest 2 with pricing at $19/month or $179/annually. Supernatural VR—Start Now!
It's not often something as simple as a grooming kit has a 5-star rating. Even if he doesn't know what all of these tools do, he'll have a full 10 of them at his disposal for all his non-beard-grooming needs (and you can help explain how to use the full Arsenal). The Arsenal Mens Grooming Kit ($14.99)—Buy Here!
Tinybeans
Tinybeans
No, it doesn't come in a box, but aside from our obvious love, 150,000 5-star reviews from our users agree. With Tinybeans, you can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. Tinybeans—Get it Here Free!
The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle
MSCHF
This is the best kind of chaotic mischief. A $20 puzzle. A chance to win between $1 and $1,000,000. Once dad completes the 500-piece puzzle, scan the QR code with your phone. Enter your secret prize code (found on the paper insert in your puzzle box) and learn what you’ve won. This isn't your average jigsaw. The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle ($20.00)—Buy Here!
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post is a seriously sharp subscription service for the modern dude in your life. Each box is built around a specific story or theme, with the goal of introducing you to something new—a better way to shave, a stylish take on barware, a new hobby; stuff like that.Stay classy, San Diego (or wherever you are). Bespoke Post Subscription (Starting at $49.00)—Buy Here!
RadRunner 2 Electric Bike
Rad Power Bikes
Commute. Explore. Whatever dad does, he can do it in style with the ebike that's been hailed "the best affordable electric utility bike". With over 330 possible accessory combinations, he can customize this moped-style ebike to his heart’s content. Want the numbers? The RadRunner2 offers up to 45 miles per charge, can support up to 300lbs, and has a 750W motor. Available in 3 colors. RadRunner 2 Electric Bike (Starting at $1449.00)—Buy Here!
The dad on the go is gonna need his trusty cooler, and this LAKA Cooler delivers. Available in 9 colors, it keeps ice for up to 10 days. Add a telescoping handle, serious durability, cup holder, bottle opener, and rubber wheels and you have a gift dad will use for years to come. LAKA 30 Cooler ($239.99)—Buy Here!
Mystery Tackle Box
Mystery Tackle Box
Does his Facebook profile picture feature him proudly displaying a freshly-caught bass? The Mystery Tackle Box is for him. Choose between a standard or pro plan for bass, multi-species, panfish and trout, walleye, or inshore saltwater fishing, and every month, he'll get a box full of bait, lures, and tackle to help fuel his fishy hobby. No two boxes are the same, either. Mystery Tackle Box (Starting at $48.45)—Buy Here!
National Park Welcome Hoodie
Parks Project
So this is a pretty cool vintage-fit hoodie. But it also gives back. Parks Project has a goal "to protect and preserve parklands for generations to come by educating, advocating, volunteering, and activating park supporters to get involved in conservation." Not only are you gifting his new favorite hoodie, but you'll be contributing to something bigger, too. (Heads up that it runs small, so be sure to go up a size or two.) National Park Welcome Hoodie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Virgin Experience Gifts
Virgin Experience Gifts
What do you get the guy that has it all? An experience he's never had. From canopy zip-lining, murder mystery theater dinners, the ultimate home date night kit, race car drives, and more, Virgin Experience Gifts offers something for everyone, almost everywhere. Pick something for dad to do, or hook him up with a gift card to choose his own. Virgin Experience Gifts (Price Varies)—Buy Here!
Stitch Fix Men
Stitch Fix
Even if dad hates shopping, Stitch Fix for Men makes it easy for him. All he has to do is take their Style Quiz (or you can do it for him—they're used to it) and he'll get 5 curated pieces delivered to him. Whether he chooses to get his Fix monthly or on-demand, he'll find pieces that fit right out of the box, and if they don't work exactly the way he wants, he can send them back (free) with notes to make his next Fix perfect. He can even preview his pieces before they ship. It's the gift that keeps on giving. Stitch Fix Men ($20.00+)—Buy Here!
Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set
Bushwick Kitchen
Spicy Honey, Spicy Maple, and Gochujang Sriracha plus a BK kitchen towel create a divinely spicy set for the heat lovers among us. And don't worry; they're not so hot that you can't taste the actual (super yummy) flavors of these kickin' condiments. Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set ($49.99)—Buy Here!
Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere
TB12 Sports
A portable massage sphere, this little gadget from TB12 Sports is for dads of all shapes and sizes. It relieves tension, warms up muscles, and basically feels awesome. Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin
Damn, Man
He'll probably assume an I.P.A. is in his Father's Day future, so surprise him with this tin of boozy peanuts. Just strong enough to make them super flavorful, they have a sweet and cocktail-y kick. Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin ($24.00)—Buy Here!
Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit
Beard Club
Maybe you expected a shave kit on the list, but we promise you didn't expect this shave kit. The Beard Club Ultimate Kit has everything he needs for his best beard ever. Plus, the over 3,500 5-star reviews from happy guys speak for themselves. Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit ($125.00)—Buy Here!
Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt
DC Shop
Even if he already owns a bunch of superhero tees, even if he already owns a bunch of Superman tees, the Diamond Anniversary t-shirt is a must for any fan. It comes in royal blue, light blue, and white. Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board
Sur la Table
No one doesn't like charcuterie. No one. This acacia and slate cheese board from foodie fave Viking is sleek, functional, and perfect for parties or movie night. Set includes a wood board with slate inlay, two cheese knives, and three pinch bowls. Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board ($179.95)—Buy Here!
Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit
Original Grain
Can't pick? How about something that covers all the bases whether he's a watch lover, a DIY fan, a whiskey connoisseur, or a vintage appreciator? This DIY kit from Original Grain lets dad make his own timepiece (and also comes in reclaimed military wood or reclaimed German beer barrel wood). What he creates is not only a very, very cool watch, but a keepsake he can be proud of. Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit ($329.00)—Buy Here!
Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box
Herd & Grace
He won't find these cuts at the neighborhood grocery store. They're premium curated cuts from Tasmania and South Australia that are typically reserved for fine dining restaurants (the kind without chicken nuggets on the menu, so it's not likely dad's made it to one of those too often these days) and would cost at least $350. It's a major deal that doesn't feel like one at all. Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box ($134.99)—Buy Here!
SolidWork Safety Goggles
SolidWork/Amazon
Why would we include something that seems ultra-practical in a list of gifts? Because these safety goggles from SolidWork have over 11,600 reviews giving them almost 5 stars. That's some goggle love. SolidWork Safety Goggles ($19.99)—Buy Here!
Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill
Everdure/Amazon
Everdure by Heston's wildly popular Cube 360 Portable Charcoal BBQ is the ultimate portable charcoal barbeque, uniquely designed to let him grill, smoke, and roast his way to outdoor cooking bliss. Available in 5 colors, too. Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill ($156.99+)—Buy Here!
Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk
Sugar Plum Chocolates
Apple Pie, Pancakes and Syrup, Fruity Flakes, PB&J, Milk and Cookies—what more could a dad ask for? Pick one of each, or snag five of his favorite flavors. Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Bond Heart Smart Necklace
Bond Touch
Obviously, anyone can wear a heart necklace. But even if dad isn't really a jewelry guy, this black (or white) heart necklace is more than just an accessory. It actually holds the heartbeats of those you love. Wrap your hand around the pendant and feel your loved ones' heartbeats without an internet connection. Anytime. Anywhere. Upload and request the heartbeats through the app, pair it with your Bond Heart, and you're set for up to 21 days before it needs to be recharged. Pretty special, right? (And if dad isn't into necklaces, check out Bond Touch's wristbands.) Bond Heart Smart Necklace ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Celebrate dad (bods) this Father’s Day with a few of our favorite things. Enjoy two large classic Banana Pudding cups, two Banana Pudding cookies, and two Double Fudge Brownies. Maybe he'll share? Dad Bod Dessert Bundle ($60.00)—Buy Here!
Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace
Colson/Amazon
Concrete and fire. That's a Father's Day gift recipe for the books. This portable fire tabletop is fueled by smokeless, odorless rubbing alcohol with flame arrestor and can be used indoor or out. Seriously. Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace ($39.96)—Buy Here!
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