Fathers are an irrefutable factor in having a child, and Father’s Day is the time when their contributions are recognized and applauded. Children with a father in the home are statistically better off in a variety of areas. However, even if a child lives in a home where there is no father, these crafts can be adapted to honor a grandfather, uncle, or other important man in the child’s life.
There are many stories in the Bible that show fathers both as examples of Godly fathers and as warning against being ungodly. These stories teach lessons about forgiveness, love and care, favoritism, faith and trust, and so many more things.
Project Ideas
- Create a book about Dad. Fold a sheet of paper in half, then half again. Cut across the longest fold, then staple the pages together at the shorter fold. Children can include a hand-drawn picture of themselves with their dad, write in things they like about their dad, write a favorite memory with Daddy, write a Bible verse, or whatever.
- Make a “cootie catcher” or paper fortune teller by folding paper. On the outside four squares, put things related to Dad (one sample had “Dad,” “Love,” “Family,” and “Happy” with fun pictures). On the second layer, put 8 riddles, and on the innermost 8 put the answers. Or the second layer can be questions about Dad and the third layer can be answers. Another option is for the second layer to be verse references and the third layer the verses – for review purposes. Be creative!
- Use shrink plastic to make a handprint keychain.
- Paint a paperweight-sized rock however is desired, then use a contrasting paint marker (black or white, depending on what will show up best) to write “My Dad Rocks!”
- A coupon book is a fun way for kids to not only show they love Dad, but to continue giving for some time after the official holiday. Some ideas for coupons include washing the car, mowing the lawn, doing something together (a ball game, get an ice cream cone, a walk around the block), or something else that dad loves.
- Pick up an inexpensive hammer and decorate them with paint, stickers, and markers.
- Use a soup can as a pencil cup. Paint a base coat of white and let children draw or paint on it or use decoupage to add a photo of the child.
- Decorate picture frames with stereotypical “dad” things like nuts and bolts or whatever sort of things their dad likes. Someone whose dad is an electrician could use wires and similar things, while a businessman’s child could use paperclips and office supplies. Put a photo of the child in the frame.
- Label a piece of cardstock with something like, “You are the best dad – hands down!” and have children make upside down handprints (if arranged properly, it looks like a heart shape), then write their names (after wiping off their hands, of course!)
- Use candy bars to make a card, using poster board. Write a fun message using the names of the candy as part of the message. It’s fun and dads with a sweet tooth will love it!
- Trace the child’s hand on a piece of thick paper. Lay it on a dark shirt and spray bleach over the area. Give it a few minutes to set and then wash for a sweet image of the handprint permanently set into the garment.
- Make a “family tree” by drawing a tree trunk and using the children’s handprints for the leaves.
Scripture About Dads
- Deuteronomy 6:6-7
And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. - Psalm 127:3-5
Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. - Psalm 128:3-4
Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the Lord. - Proverbs 4:11
I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths. - Proverbs 20:7
The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him. - Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Resources
Father’s Day Handprint Frame
Add the child’s handprint to this cute poem and insert into the frame (after decorating it). Comes with six frames, six papers, and one bottle of finger paint.
Father’s Day Sign Kit
This silhouette dad-and-child sign has the text of Proverbs 20:7 on it. 12 sign kits come in one package.
All About Dad Poster
Children color and fill in this fun poster that tells the child’s favorite things about Dad – and there is a place for a picture. Either have the child draw Dad or paste a photo in the spot.
Picture Frame Painting Kit
Three unfinished wooden frames come with brushes and paint and some other decorations to allow children to make a custom frame just for the special man in their life.
Tool Box Desk Caddy
Plywood pre-cut pieces are ready for a child to put together and decorate for Dad to put on his desk and keep pens and pencils or other desk items tidy.
Decorate Your Own Plastic Mug
A paper insert allows young people to create a masterpiece for their dad. The paper insert can be removed to make the mug washable in the dishwasher.
Family Handprint Photo Frame
The whole family can add their handprint to this frame to make a keepsake like no other. Add a photo of the family for everyone to enjoy.
Dad-related Scrapbook Paper
Dad-designed scrapbook paper makes great cards or embellishments for cards for Dad. The papers are printed on both sides.