Father's Day Activities Kids Can Plan (With a Little Help From Their Nanny)

Father's Day does not need an expensive present or a stressful plan. Some of the best Father's Day ideas for kids are the simple things they can make, organise or do themselves. With a little help from a nanny or the other parent, children can take the lead and put together a day Dad will genuinely remember.

A trip to the shops might be the easiest option, but it is rarely the most memorable one. There is something lovely about a child being able to say "I made this for you" or "I planned this myself." A nanny is perfectly placed to help behind the scenes, giving kids just enough support to bring their idea to life while letting them take all the credit.

Here are some easy, affordable Father's Day activities in NZ kids can help plan.

1. Make Dad a personalised voucher book

A classic for good reason. Hand the kids some paper, coloured pencils and a stapler, and let them create vouchers Dad can redeem throughout the year, from one big hug to a breakfast made by the kids or a game of his choosing. Parenting Place recommends homemade voucher books built around chores, treats and one-on-one time as an affordable gift idea. A nanny can help younger children with the writing, but the ideas should come from the kids.

2. Plan a Father's Day breakfast

Breakfast in bed is fun, but breakfast at the table is slightly safer with small children involved. Kids can plan a simple menu, decorate the table and make a handmade place card. Parenting Place suggests pancake breakfasts and baking as easy ways to get children into the kitchen. A nanny can manage the hot pans and the clean-up while the kids stay Head Chef.

3. Create a "10 Things We Love About Dad" poster

This costs almost nothing and can end up meaning a great deal. Ask each child what they love, appreciate or find funny about Dad, using prompts like "What is he really good at?" Write the answers on a large sheet of paper and let the kids decorate it with drawings or photos.

4. Organise a backyard Dad Olympics

For an active family, turn the backyard or local park into the venue for the inaugural Dad Olympics. Let the kids choose the events, gumboot throwing, sack races, backyard cricket or an obstacle course, then make homemade medals and put them in charge as commentators and referees. It is one of those family activities for Father's Day in New Zealand that can be as relaxed or as competitive as your family likes.

5. Make a homemade gift

Kids do not need to spend much to create something Dad will keep. A painted rock, decorated mug, framed drawing or photo collage all make lovely gifts, and Parenting Place recommends homemade presents and children's artwork as affordable alternatives to buying something new. The point is giving kids ownership of the project, not aiming for Pinterest-perfect craft skills.

6. Plan a mini adventure

Father's Day falls at the start of spring in New Zealand, so hopefully the weather cooperates. Ask the kids to choose a simple outing, a bush walk, bike ride, beach trip or a walk to the local café for a hot chocolate, and let them help plan the route.