2020: A Father’s Day Like No Other

By Nichole Richardson

The current global pandemic has flipped the world as we know it on its head. In one way or another, it has affected every one of us. Businesses are having to restructure, just as families are having to readjust to these strange conditions. Things this year will undoubtedly look vastly different from years past—including the upcoming Father’s Day holiday. A day that would normally consist of family gatherings and personal interactions may not be possible this year but there are still plenty of ways to make Dad feel special in 2020.

Teach and Learn

Maybe now is the time to catch up on your IT skills or teach some new skills to Dad? Social media sites are great platforms to stay connected with family members so why not set up Dad with his own page or even teach him how to use the Zoom platform for great face-to-face interaction. This service allows you to join in with others virtually, doing anything your heart desires. Rachel Ray just hosted a “Cook-along” from her actual kitchen! Who knew?

If Dad’s not into that type of thing, it’s still possible to teach the old dog a new trick. Find out what things interest him the most (you probably already know!) and introduce him to the world of online learning. MasterClass offers tutorials for nearly anything. Would Dad like to learn to cook with a famous chef or maybe learn more about his favorite hobby?

If you can’t be with Dad this year there are still ways to experience a fun outing with him. Many organizations are now offering virtual tours so elaborate, it may well feel like actually being there. Visit the Grand Canyon, an ocean, or a museum together from your computers.

Serve and Enjoy

If you are lucky enough to be able to spend time with Dad this Father’s Day IRL (in real life—see, you just learned a techie term!), make it a day with no destination. Let Dad lounge all day in his pajamas or tan under the sun and pretend to be his own personal assistant. Chances are, he hasn’t had someone serve him in quite awhile.

Have a seat and reminisce about days past. Let him tell you his stories you’ve heard 1000 times. My dad just passed in January and I only wish I had the chance to hear those stories again. Break out the old pictures or if you live close enough, take a drive together through your old neighborhood.

Play with Dad like you did as a kid. Why not grab that dusty deck of cards for a game of Rummy (my own father’s personal favorite) or opt for a game of old-school Dominos?

Is Dad missing his sports? Depending on dad’s agility, maybe he’d like to play in his own family flag football game? If that’s too steep, why not relax on the couch and watch a fun sports movie like Major League or Miracle? Or maybe Covid-inspired Groundhog Day?

Food is alway a hit with Dad. Man the grill for him or have an ice cream social at home. Fill the countertops with various toppings and whip up a batch of homemade ice cream.

No matter if you are able to spend this Father’s Day with Dad IRL or not, nothing is better than saying “Thank you Dad, I love you.” No matter how old you both are. Don’t skip this…you never know when you won’t be able to tell him…virtually or personally. Sure wish I could. Have a safe and happy Father’s Day ya’ll.

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