Fathers play a significant role in their kids’ lives. They’re essential role models, influence children’s self-esteem and school performance, and make great coaches and fun-loving playmates. Once kids have grown and aged, fathers make great friends and confidants and are there to lend a hand.

Father’s Day is just around the corner! Don’t be caught scrambling for the perfect way to show him you care. Try some of these ideas to show your dad just how important he is to you. And if you’re a dad yourself, feel free to subtly send this list to your kids…

Make a video

Make a “World’s Best Dad” video he’ll treasure for years to come. Share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem or even do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other with Dad as the main topic. Don’t forget props such as a banner or collection of his prized possessions. Most importantly, be sure to let him know just how much he means to you.

King for the day

It isn’t every day your dad gets waited on hand and foot. So treat him like royalty. Bring him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper; be host or hostess and serve him beverages and snacks; clean up after him and anything else to give him the royal treatment.

Scrapbook memories

Buy a scrapbook, and create a record of memories about you and your dad. Include photos of special outings, events and holidays you’ve had together. Also include memorabilia such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those special times with him.

Write a poem

You don’t need to be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to express how much he means to you. Describe the impact he’s had on your life, how he’s helped shape the person you are today and what he means to you. Then print it on stationery, matte and frame it.

Musical moment

Pop your dad’s favorite album into the family CD player (or tape, or record player!) and enjoy the tunes together. Or, look to see what concerts are coming up (local music is making a comeback!) and snag some deals for a fun night of music!

Help around the house

Has your dad been putting off cleaning out his attic, basement or garage? Gift him shelving materials and brackets, wall racks and ceiling hooks and storage crates. Then spend the day helping him get organized while catching up on old times.

World’s greatest

Let your dad know he’s valued 365 days a year! Give him a “World’s Greatest Dad” coffee mug, t-shirt, book cover, bookmarker, wallet card or another trinket that he’ll see or use regularly.

Sports buff’s surprise

Take your dad for a sporting good time. Play a game of golf (Tiara Rado in Grand Junction and Black Canyon Golf Course in Montrose were voted the 2020 BEACON Best!), or play pickleball, shoot some hoops, go fishing or enjoy a paddle around a lake.

Weekend getaway

Get in touch with nature and each other on a camping trip for two. Either rough it in a tent or take a camper to a state park (check which ones are open first). Spend your weekend hiking, sightseeing, fishing, boating, playing cards and taking it easy together.

Father’s Day feast

As the old adage goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. This year, treat Dad to a mouth-watering barbecue. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers or chops for starters. Don’t forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, sweet corn, potato salad, and his favorite dessert.

Pamper him

Has your father been growing a quarantine mullet? Treat him to a gift certificate for a local barber. Then take him out for ice cream or to dinner where he can show off his new ’do.

Photo collage

Put together a photo collage of you and your father. Consult your nearby craft store and create a decoupage photo collage. Keep it simple with a multi-photo frame, or buy a unique 3D photo collage frame. You can find materials at art and craft stores and online.

Take a stroll

 Enjoy a peaceful walk in the park or along the river together. Better yet, gather your bikes and hit a scenic bike path like the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail in Montrose or the River Front Trail that runs through Fruita, Grand Junction and Palisade, enjoying the fresh summer air.

Catch a flick...or two

Treat your dad to a movie fest. Rent a couple newly released videos or some of his long-time favorites. Or, head over to Delta’s Tru Vu Drive-In for their nightly showings. Whether you enjoy the movies at home or the theater, don’t forget the hot, buttered popcorn, candy and soft drinks.

Get in touch with his soft side 

Give your dad a book of poetry specially written for fathers. Try one of these:

“Fathers: A Collection of Poems” by David Ray and Judy Ray

“Fathers: Collected Poems” by Ken Koprowski

“Thoughts to Share with a Wonderful Father: A Collection of Poems” by Blue Mountain Arts Collections

The gift of giving

Does your dad have a favorite cause or charity such as the humane society, the nature conservancy or the American Cancer Society? If so, why not give him a membership or make a donation in his name? Remember, small donations add up and can really make a difference.

Or, try hunting with your dad to celebrate him!