Father’s Day
Father’s Day activities and crafts for kids
Many primary school children make something for Father’s Day at school. But babies, toddlers, some preschoolers and older children often do not. That is where an au pair can help with a small, thoughtful activity at home.
The goal is not to create a perfect craft. A simple card, photo, handprint or funny answer from a child can mean much more than a polished project. Keep it age-appropriate, easy to prepare and realistic for the time you have.
Quick Father’s Day ideas
Father’s Day craft inspiration
Need more visual ideas? This Pinterest board collects Father’s Day crafts and activity ideas you can use as inspiration before choosing one simple project to make with the children.
For babies
Babies cannot make a craft by themselves, but they can still be part of a sweet Father’s Day gift. Keep it simple, safe and quick.
- Make a handprint or footprint card with washable paint.
- Take a photo of the baby holding a small sign that says “Happy Father’s Day”.
- Create a tiny keepsake with a photo, date and a short note from the au pair or parent.
- Make a simple “things I love about Dad” card from the baby’s point of view.
For toddlers
Toddlers love activities that are hands-on, messy and not too long. The result does not need to be perfect.
- Decorate a card with stickers, crayons and a printed photo.
- Make a finger-paint heart or tie shape.
- Create a “Dad and me” drawing, even if it is mostly scribbles.
- Make a simple paper medal that says “Best Dad”.
- Decorate a paper frame for a photo.
For preschoolers
Preschoolers can make something more personal, especially if the au pair helps with cutting, writing and assembling.
- Make a questionnaire card with prompts like “My dad is good at…” and “I like it when we…”.
- Create a handprint card shaped like a heart, sun or football.
- Make a paper toolbox card with little paper tools that each say something kind.
- Decorate a bookmark for dads who read.
- Make a small coupon booklet with ideas like “one big hug” or “help with breakfast”.
For school-age children
Many primary school children make something for Father’s Day at school. But not every child does, and younger siblings often do not. A home activity can still be lovely, especially if it is small and personal.
- Make a homemade card with a real message instead of only a drawing.
- Create a “10 things I love about Dad” list.
- Make breakfast menu cards for Father’s Day morning.
- Design a football, cycling, coffee or hobby-themed card.
- Make a simple photo collage with drawings around it.
For teens
Teens may not want to do a traditional craft, but they can still make something thoughtful. Give them options that feel less childish.
- Create a playlist for Dad.
- Make a funny family memory card.
- Write a short letter or list of things they appreciate.
- Design a digital card or photo collage.
- Cook or help prepare a simple Father’s Day breakfast.
Easy setup for au pairs
Pick one idea, not five. Prepare paper, crayons, stickers, glue and a photo if you have one. For younger children, do the cutting yourself and let the child decorate. For older children, give them a few options and let them choose.
If the child already made something at school, you can still make a small extra: a card, a photo, a breakfast menu or a handwritten note. Father’s Day activities work best when they feel personal, not complicated.