• Start by using the cookie cutter to cut a heart shape in the middle of a slice of bread, making sure the surrounding bread stays intact,
• Crack an egg into a cup,
• Heat oil or melt butter in a frying pan, and lay the bread on top carefully allowing it to toast on one side,
• Flip the bread over and pour the egg from the cup into the heart shaped hole in the bread,
• Cook for 5-6 mins over a low heat, or until the white is set.

A Homemade Lunch
Instead of going out to a restaurant, have a special Father’s Day lunch at home and involve your children in the whole process. Start off by letting them choose a recipe, like homemade pizza followed by ice lollies for dessert, then they can help with cooking and setting the table. Enjoy the quality time spent together at the table and savour the delicious homemade meal.

Game Night
Organise a fun-filled game night at home. Gather together board games, like the very appropriate Sshh Don’t Wake Dad and card games like Sussed? All Sorts Quiz Card Game. Game nights are a fantastic way to involve the whole family, create a lively atmosphere, and enjoy each other’s company without spending a lot of money.

Photoshoot
Find a picturesque location nearby, such as a park, garden or beach for a family photoshoot. Use a smartphone or camera with a timer, or enlist the help of a friend, to capture a photo that can be framed and cherished by Dad for years to come. Encourage your child to decorate the frame to make a more personalised gift. If your child is too young to do this, cut out large letters to spell out Dad or Daddy and take photos with them holding the letters.

Spend a day in nature
Go for a walk as a family. Keep your child amused by making some homemade binoculars with them from cardboard tubes, and encourage them to take a journal with them so they can make a note or draw pictures of what they spot on your walk. Take photos which you can print out and add to the journal on your return. This will be a lovely keepsake of your Father’s Day adventure that you can look back on as a family.

Treasure Hunt
Set up a treasure hunt for Dad, leaving clues around the house that eventually lead him to the ‘treasure’. Children can get involved by creating the clues; these could be riddles, puzzles, rhymes or pictures depending on the child’s age. The final clue should lead Dad to his treasure, which could be something he has been wanting, a homemade gift, a heartfelt letter or picture that lets him know how much he is loved and appreciated.

Put on a show
Whether it’s a play, dance, song, or puppet show, Dad will appreciate the work put into creating a Father’s Day performance just for him, and it’s a great opportunity for everyone to come together and enjoy quality time as a family. Children can tap into their creativity and imagination as they come up with a script, costumes, music, and props. Performing in front of an audience, even just a few family members, can boost children’s confidence and self-esteem. The thought, effort and love put into the whole process is what truly matters and will make it a meaningful gift for Dad.

Homemade Gifts
What better way to show your love and appreciation than with a homemade gift? They showcase the time, effort, and thoughtfulness put into creating something unique and special. They are guaranteed to bring a smile to Dad’s face on Father’s Day, and cost very little to make. Here are some ideas you might like to try with your child…

Handprint Art
With a few simple steps, children can create a unique masterpiece for their Dad.

• Start by selecting a suitable canvas or piece of paper.
• Then dip your child’s hand in non-toxic and washable paint in Dad’s favourite colours. Ensure all of the hand is covered, but make sure there isn’t too much excess.
• Carefully press their hand onto the canvas or paper to leave a clear handprint.
• Your child could then decorate the handprint with stickers, biodegradable glitter, other craft supplies, or they could add drawings or write a message.

Memory Jar
Create a memory jar filled with notes of love and appreciation for Dad.

• Start by encouraging your child to decorate an empty jar with stickers, small pieces of coloured paper etc,
• Then ask them to write down some of their favourite memories, special moments and reasons why they love their dad,
• Fold the notes up and place them inside the jar,
• When Dad needs a pick-me-up, he can open the jar and be reminded of the love and joy he brings to his child’s life.

Credit: Emilia Orviss of The Good Play Guide