Rummage through the attic, basement or garage to recycle items like a forgotten baseball from his college days, an unused compass, a key ring, or old CDs. Other items can be purchased at dollar or hobby stores. When ready, gather up the kids and have a fun afternoon crafting up something Dad will actually use.
NOTE: An adult or older sibling must always be present when kids are working with tools and craft supplies like glue.
For the Little Ones to Make
1. Baseball Paperweight
A bit of nostalgia for Dad: To make a paperweight for Dad to use at work or his home office, glue his old baseball to a small metal ring or nut using white craft glue.
2. Compass Key Ring
Dad’s personal lo-tech GPS system: Just slip a small compass onto a key chain. Buy compasses at sports or hobby stores.
3. Spa Basket
Mom’s not the only one who would appreciate a day at the spa. Have the little ones mix up homemade, inexpensive bath salts for Dad by adding a few drops of rosemary or thyme essential oils to plain bath salts. Mix well with a wooden or plastic spoon and pour the bath salts into an unused coffee mug or other suitable container. Buy both the essential oils and bath salts at drugstores.
For Older Siblings
4. Recycle Wine Bottles
If Dad’s hobby is to make his own favorite tipple, why not do Dad a favor, and clean up that stash of bottles that he’s collected to for his wine or beer beverages? To clean the bottles and remove the labels, soak the bottles in hot, soapy water and use steel wool soap pads to gently remove any residual paper label or glue. Dry thoroughly and store the bottles in a wooden crate or large basket for Dad to use as needed.
5. Personal Wine Bottle Labels
Create personalized labels for Dad’s homemade tipple on the home computer. Scan an image created by the kids and add some catchy text for the labels. Print these out on self-adhesive labels purchased at any office supply store.
6. CD Photo Frame
Make Dad a picture frame using an old CD. All you need is the CD with its case and a photo Dad would love. Scan and print the photo on cardstock (if you have no cardstock, glue the printed photo to thin cardboard). Next, cut out the photo into a 3" circle and attach it to the CD with white craft glue. Snap the CD photo back into its case and then fold the front of the case back so that the frame stands up.
Save some time and money before heading out to the shops and check what's available in cupboards and closets that can be recycled for Dad. He is sure to be pleased to receive any one of these gifts and proud to display them.
