Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Your Ex Husband: Thoughtful Options from the Kids
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you haven’t started planning, don’t worry, no one expects you to be curating a Pinterest-perfect gift list for your ex husband! However, showing support for your children so they can celebrate their dad can be incredibly meaningful for them, regardless of what your feelings are about him.
To make things easier, here’s a practical list of Father’s Day gift ideas for your ex husband that your kids can help create without requiring a lot of time or money.
Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Your Ex Husband from Young Kids (Under 5)
When your children are toddlers or preschoolers, handmade Father’s Day gifts are always a hit. Hopefully their school or daycare has already helped out, but if not, here are some easy ideas:
1. Handprint or Footprint Art
Use paper, canvas, or even a blank card to make a keepsake. It’s a little messy, but it’s also a lot of fun for your kids. If that seems like too much, try one of the other suggestions below!
2. Decorated Picture Frame
Print a favorite photo for just a few cents, then find an old frame or grab one from a thrift store. Let your child decorate it with stickers, glitter, or foam shapes.
3. Homemade Father’s Day Card
Chances are, you already have construction paper and crayons at home! This is a cute (and free) idea that their dad will love.
4. Dad’s Snack Bag
Fill a small paper lunch bag with his favorite snacks. Let your child decorate the outside with doodles and Father’s Day wishes.
Elementary-Aged Kids: Creative Father’s Day Gift Ideas
If your kids are in elementary school, they might have already done something in class. If not, these Father’s Day gifts for your ex husband are creative, affordable, and easy to do at home:
1. “My Dad” Fill-in-the-Blank Printable
Kids can answer prompts and you can help write them in. Pinterest has lots of printables if you want some ideas!
2. DIY Coupon Book for Dad
Include ideas like:
- “One free hug”
- “Help with the dishes”
- “Go for a walk together”
3. Father’s Day Scavenger Hunt
Have your kids write clues (you may have to help) that they can then hide around their dad’s place with a small gift or treat waiting at the end. Your kids will have so much fun with this!
4. Movie Night with Dad Kit
Package up a bag with microwave popcorn, a homemade movie ticket, and a small bag of candy or soda.
Father’s Day Gifts from Teens to Their Dad
Teenagers may seem less enthusiastic about Father’s Day, but with a little nudge, they can still give something meaningful. Here are Father’s Day gifts from teens that will make their dad feel appreciated:
1. Framed Photo with a Personal Note
Choose a meaningful photo and have it printed. The teen can write a message or memory on the back, or attach a card.
2. Video Message or Slideshow
A photo montage set to music is thoughtful (and free!). Bonus, your kids will probably be able to do this without your help!
3. Movie Night with Dad
Pick a movie their dad loves, provide snacks, and have your kids put it on the calendar. For a teen to offer their time is everything!
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple and Supportive
Helping your kids give a small gift or gesture to their dad (even thought it is your ex husband) can go a long way in nurturing their emotional well-being and modeling kindness. You don’t have to go over the top with money spent or time invested.
So this Father’s Day, consider how your support might make a difference, not for your ex, but for your children.
Looking for some additional ideas? Check out this article!
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