Fathers do not get enough credit for their sacrifice. They care about our interests, needs and wants, but not many of us know what our father will truly want for Father’s Day. As it is usually hard to buy a gift for our Dads, this Father’s Day, we decided to dig a little deeper and ask ourselves what would make Dad feel loved?
We looked at the 5 primary love languages that people use to understand their loved ones. Namely, Words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, gifts, and acts of service. By understanding how your father prefers to show love and receive love, you would be able to get him a gift that he would actually use.
1. For the workaholic
You might think that dad only cares about his nine-to-five office job. But even if he’s often away on business, his biggest concern is providing for you and giving you privileges he may not have enjoyed when he was younger. Show Dad that you appreciate him for slogging it out in the office everyday.
2. For the Modern Cook
He defies the stereotype about men and cooking. In fact, he may even be better than mum in the kitchen. He takes pride in feeding you, and is fiercely protective of the kitchen at home. Opt for these gifts and watch your Dad beam with joy.
Quality Time: Sit down and spend time with Dad over a delicious meal he cooked.
Words of Affirmation: Sometimes, words of affection do not have to be explicit. Put an apron on for Dad before he cooks – A simple but symbolic gesture that shows your appreciation for Dad’s cooking everyday.
Acts of Service: It may be torturous to chop and slice meat with a blunt knife. Get him a sharp and reliable set of knives to make cooking more enjoyable for the Pops. The kicker? Offer to help him with some of the meal prep!
Physical Touch: Your presence in the Kitchen is all that matters to Dad. Help him stir his pot of soup with the soup ladle, while he stir fries with the spatula.
Gifts: A thoughtful gift for the Modern Cook would be something that is functional, and makes cooking enjoyable. The Oil and Vinegar Dripless Dispenser marries both functionality and fun!
3. For the Active Dad:
If your dad has invited or forced you to go for a run with him, you know he has an appreciation for the solace that physical activity provides. Tough on the outside and contemplative on the inside, the perfect gift for this dad is sure to inspire his next workout.
Acts of Service: Remember the times where you complaint that you were tired from walking? Dad would often slip your bag off your shoulders, put his on his own, and encourage you to go on. Perhaps it is time for you to take his load off his shoulders as you go on a a hike with Dad.
Physical Touch: Made with 100% Cotton, the Marshmallow Bath Towel feels like a warm embrace every time Dad steps out of the shower.
Quality Time: Plug in your earphones, and share one side with Dad to let him in to your world of music.
Words of Affirmation: Get him something that he can use on his weekly runs, and don’t forget to tell him he looks good in a pair of fitting joggers!
Gifts: Lightweight and easy to use, the Tritan BPA-Free sports water bottle will equip your dad for his next intense workout.
4. For the traveller:
This dad always has his next itinerary planned, whether for a road trip or vacations near and far. Sometimes you wish you can join him on these trips.
Acts of Service: The next time Dad jets off to his next destination, help him with his packing. Travel cubes are underrated, as they are one of the best ways to organize and maximize space in his suitcase. A practical gift Dad will appreciate for all his future trips.
Physical Touch: Dad may not always have a shoulder to lean on when he travels. Instead, he may have to make do with a neck pillow on his trips. The Nylon Neck Pillow is warm and comforting to the neck, it is even more reliable than a shoulder to lean on.
Quality Time: Nothing bonds two people better than a trip overseas. Plan a road trip to a destination on Dad’s bucket list to spend quality time doing something he loves.
Words of Affirmation: He may be jetting off frequently, but that doesn’t mean that he does not miss you on his trips. A notebook will give Dad an outlet to jot down his thoughts and feelings as he thinks of you when he travels.
Gifts: The strap buckle backpack is sturdy and made of waterproof Polyester. It provides ample space, making it perfect for Dad’s short trips.