How to manage Father’s Day

Father’s Day can be particularly difficult for those bereaved of their Dad. We are here to help you.

Here are some tips from bereaved families about how they spend Father’s Day:

You can also download our tips if easier and share with anyone you feel they may help.

Tips to manage Father's Day

 

“Be open and talk about how you are feeling. Then plan what you will do together as a family.”

“Talk to people who understand that time moves on, but memories never do.”

“Be gentle on yourself and do what is right for you. It may be that you feel it’s important to ‘be there’ for other family members, but if ‘time out’ for you feels important instead, make sure you get some!”

“Take some time before the day to think together about the feelings that are around this year. Don’t assume that what was felt last year will be felt again this year – feelings change over time.”

“Think of ‘Father’s Day’ as the day we celebrate all those in a fathering role and those who care for us (which can include single dads / grandparents etc) rather than the more limited ‘Father’s Day’.”

What can I do on Father’s Day with my children?

• create a memory box full of the colours and objects that remind them of their Dad.
• listen to their Dad’s favourite music or make his favourite meal.
• visit a place they loved, or plant something special in your garden.
• go on their Dad’s favourite walk or bike ride together.

If your child is grieving, remember…

Grief is not pretty, or easy, no matter what we do. It will also take time – who knows how long – and a small part of the grief may never go away. But it’s important to remind yourself that your
child will smile again, laugh again, and flourish again. And so will you.

If you need more information, we have lots of other free resources available for bereaved children and their families under Resources.