Father's Day is an exciting celebratory day for a lot of families. For others, it's simply not.
There are many reasons why a child might not celebrate Father's Day. They could be from a family that doesn't include a "dad." They could have had a parent in the picture at one point who no longer is. It's not uncommon. The National Fatherhood Initiative estimates that 1 in every 4 kids lives without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home.
Whatever the reason may be, there can be some complicated feelings around the occasion. There are ways to handle those feelings and still make the most out of a hyped and celebrated weekend. Families create their own traditions all the time, and creating one out of your alternative to Father's Day may be just what your family needs.
Talk About It
Be prepared to have age-appropriate conversations with your kids about their feelings around Father's Day. This will look a little different in every family, so just go with what feels right to you as far as the scope of the discussion. Sometimes, just addressing the elephant in the room can relieve a lot of the tension.
Do Something in a Lost Father's Honor or Memory
If the father or other parent figure in your family has died, it's a nice opportunity to do something in their honor or memory. This could mean anything from donating your time to a cause they cared about or participating in their favorite activity. It's a way to bring them into the day without dwelling on the sadder aspects.
Celebrate Another Awesome Adult in the Child's Life
Just because it isn't Father's Day for your family doesn't mean you can't take the opportunity to honor someone who means a lot to you. It could be a grandparent, aunt, or friend who helps out in a really special and meaningful way. It can even be someone who previously identified as dad but is trans or nonbinary so the name no longer feels appropriate. These caregivers still deserve our love and attention.
Have a Get-Together With Friends and Loved Ones
Celebrate spring, almost summer, the end of the school year, or anything else with other people who are looking for a different way to spend the day. It will show your kid that they aren't the only one not celebrating Father's Day and give you a fun way to spend the day.
Create Your Own Tradition
If it's just you and your kiddo, you may want to find a way to celebrate the day each year with your own tradition. Head to a local amusement park. Go on a hike off the grid. Do whatever brings you joy, which could change from year to year.
It's OK To Just Make It Any Other Day
Some families find that the best option for them is to just treat the holiday like any other Sunday. This is a personal choice that is not for anyone else to judge or critique.
