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It isn’t always easy to shop for dads ― whether it’s your own dad, or your husband.

After all, he’s been there through those night feeds, toddler tantrums, or perhaps even the angsty adolescent years, and you need to show him your appreciation.

So, forget boring gifts ― you know that your man secretly doesn’t want, or need, another tie, money clip or box of chocolates. Instead, the ideal gift should reveal how much you and the kids are thinking of him on this special day.

We’ve got some terrific ideas for you, so scroll through the photo gallery to find out more!

Main photo: iStock

1. Interview the kids on their impressions of dad

Make a video recording of the kiddos talking about daddy dearest. Come up with a bunch of open-ended questions, like “The funniest thing daddy does is…” or “Daddy always does this the minute he comes home…” and let the kids roll with their most spontaneous answers! Alternatively, for older kids, print out a list of the questions and get them to write down the answers. Then, place the questions and answers in a frame and present it to dad. 

2. Get that man a steak

Treat your meat-loving man to an extravagant meal at Lawry’s on 16 and 17 June, because dads eat free when he orders the Father’s Day menu with three other family members. Priced at $98++ per person, the four-course meal features seasonal items like Pan-fried Foie Gras with Red Wine, Golden Poulet with Tomato Cream Gnocchi and of course, the signature Roasted Prime Rib of Beef. Lawry’s is at #04-01 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road, 6836-3333. Or check out one of these family-friendly restaurants, so dad can dine in peace while the kids play!

3. Order in while enjoying movie night

If dad is a movie buff, get the whole family to watch his favourite movie with him ― Shawshank Redemption or Lord of the Rings anyone? You’d be surprised to find that the kids may have not know what is dad’s fave film! Bring out some popcorn and snacks, or order dinner in. You can also pick up Sakae Sushi’s Father’s Day Mosaic Sushi gift set ($29.80), which includes an assortment of bite-sized sushi, as well as a Chocolate Speculoos Tart. Do note that the gift set is only available for self-collection ― pre-order at 6388-8383. 

4. Create Father’s Day coupons

Get crafty with the little ones to put together a little booklet of coupons containing Father’s Day treats for dad! Throw in “A morning of big cuddles in bed”, “A day as king of the TV remote control”, or “One carwash,” courtesy of the kids. Sneak in a couple of coupons from mummy too ― How does “One sensual back rub”, or “One sexy date night out without the kids” sound? More ideas here!

5. Treat him to a massage at home

If your man is a feeling a little stressed out by work, a relaxing massage should help him unwind. Solehouse provides mobile massage services in the comfort of your own home ― a 60-minute full body massage, plus a 60-minute foot rub costs $210. You can book massages all day from 2pm to midnight, which means you can arrange a session for him after the kids go to bed. What a treat! 

6. Get something personalised

Ditch the idea of a run-of-the-mill tie, or another black leather wallet. A thoughtfully executed personalised gift will be treasured for years to come. We love the idea of the Hand Drawn Personalised Envelope cufflinks ($121.86) from Gifts Less Ordinary. These “envelope” cufflinks contain little wooden inserts displaying your or junior’s etchings (simply scan the drawing and upload it on the site) ― you can even add a little message on the back. Delivery is free. (Photo: Gifts Less Ordinary).

7. Dish up his morning meal

Start the day right with dad by preparing his favourite breakfast. We love this soft-baked eggs in avocadorecipe, or simply make some gluten-free banana pancakes with junior: Mash a ripe banana, add 1/8 teaspoon of baking powder to it, then whisk it with two eggs until it’s all combined. Drop two table spoons of the batter into a buttered pan and cook for about a minute on each side. Serve it to dad in bed, with some walnuts and maple syrup drizzled over the pancakes ― we promise he’ll love it!

8. Have a Sports Day

Does your man adore football? Does he have a favourite team? Put together the perfect Father’s Day “team” centred around his favourite sport and make his a day to remember! Present him with a brand-new jersey of his favourite team, put your little ones in mini-jerseys, then head outdoors to kick a ball around. Or, surprise dad with a meal at a football themed café, like Café Football Singapore. Partially-owned by Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville, this eatery serves mainly Western fare like burgers, sandwiches and steaks. Prices from $13 to $38. Of course, live football matches are screened while you dine. Located at 48 Woodleigh Park, 8820-8814, the café is open daily from 11am to midnight.