Let’s face it, sometimes our dads and husbands aren’t exactly easy to buy for (or is that just us?). So, lest you default to the cliche gifts of ties, brunch and breakfast in bed, our A Child Grows team got together and brainstormed our favorite (and most successful!) Father’s Day gifts. From practical to experiential to just plain sentimental and adorable, we have something for everyone this year.
1. The Awesome Box!
This gift gives new meaning to the word “awesome.” Can’t think of a thoughtful way to show Dad how much you care? Homemade cards are great, (and your kids should make those, too!), but how about sitting with the kiddos and helping them create photo cards with personal messages on each, all packaged together in a lovely box for Dad to read and enjoy? Enter Awesome Box! An hour at the computer with my daughters picking pictures and letting them pluck out messages to Daddy on the keyboard was time well spent. And the result is absolutely adorable. You can choose from boxes of 10 to 100, with options to invite friends and family around the globe to participate, these keepsake boxes are a wonderful way to bring family together around a project that’s slightly more personal than the “Happy Father’s Day!” Facebook posts and texts we’ve all become accustomed to. I highly recommend the Awesome Box for any occasion! Use the code AWESOMESUMMER for $15 off through August 31, 2016. (Mollie, Editor)
2. Bobby Flay’s Grilling For Life
Looking for some grilling guidance for the grill-happy dad? Help him get out of his “hot dogs and hamburgers” comfort zone with Bobby Flay’s Grilling For Life to bring out the grilling adventurer in your dad while still keeping things (relatively) healthy and real. Call your local, independent bookstore to find out if they have this gem in stock or to request a special order. (Mollie, Editor)
3. A Portable Grill
Speaking of grilling, not all of us have yards or patios, but we probably have access to a public park where we can picnic and get our grilling on (be sure to check your local park for grilling rules). If you’re grilling on the go, this Weber “Go Anywhere” Portable Grill comes in gas or charcoal options, is affordable, portable and sure to make the grill loving dad in your life very happy. (Marisa, Business Development)
4. The Scratch Map Deluxe
Is the Dad in your life a world traveler (or does he want to be?)? This Scratch Map Deluxe is the perfect gift for the intrepid traveler. Cure your favorite dad’s wanderlust with this super cool map, overlaid with gold. Grab a coin and scratch off the places that you’ve traveled to reveal bright colors underneath. This is a great way for Dad to reminisce about the places he’s been and motivate him to get out there and explore again. It’s also a fun way to talk about your travels with the kids. (Marisa, Business Development)
5. A Floating Session
Looking for something more experiential and relaxing for the stressed out dad in your life? For the dad who is open to new experiences (and could also use a serious chill out session), gift him a round of sensory-deprived floatation. Sound new age-y? Maybe, but these cool spas are popping up around the country. For our local readers, check out Lift Floats in Brooklyn and Flotation Philly and Halcyon Floats in Philadelphia. (Marisa, Business Development)
6. An Outdoor Family Excursion
Do you want to make Father’s Day an experiential, outdoors, active experience for the whole family? Get out of your comfort zone and check out Blue Mountain Resort‘s Summit Aerial Park in the Poconos. Challenge yourselves, build camaraderie and bring the family together for this adventurous and fun outdoor excursion! (Rachael, Event Planner)
7. Dad Pants!
Every active dad needs a pair of “dad pants”, right? The Dad in your life may never wear anything else outside the office! These prAna Zion pants are quick drying, water and wrinkle resistant (perfect for stuffing into a backpack for a camping trip!) and will prepare any dad for weeks in the wilderness. (Sarah, Staff Writer)
8. A Monogrammed Wallet
Yes, this may fall into the “traditional” category when it comes to Father’s Day gifts, but let’s face it: every dad needs a wallet that doesn’t weigh him down and have the potential for becoming a catch-all for every crumpled, torn up receipt for the past 10 years, right? Check out this minimalist option from Joo Joobs on Etsy to avoid the clutter. The leather and craftsmanship are great quality for a reasonable price and you can have it monogrammed for that personal touch. (Sarah, Staff Writer)