You’ve put in the work. You’ve logged the hours. You’ve spent the free time after your job traveling back and forth between ball games, batting cages, and school plays. Not that there’s anything you’d rather be doing than guiding your kids through the ranks of infancy and adolescence, but once a year it’s nice to sit back and be reminded of all the reasons you should be proud. After all, being a Dad is tough work, and you deserve to know that the job you’ve done has been appreciated. So this year why not spend the day doing what you want to do? We’ve kicked off your holiday brainstorm with five great ideas for a day with the kids, all perfect for crafting new plans or taking existing Father’s Day traditions to the next level. 

1. Play Ball: You’ve likely spent the past few months watching your kids lap the bases in softball or baseball; now for Father’s Day treat yourself to some time spent watching your favorite professional team do the same. Girls and boys both love the stadium for it’s ice cream and hot dogs, while you get to enjoy the atmosphere of the park and teach the young ones the finer points of how the game is played. Don’t forget to include some old stories about how their old man used to whack it over the fences, and also remember to bring the kids’ gloves to the stadium for a chance to catch foul balls.
2. Father’s Day Oasis: Lakes. Rivers. Oceans. Pools. Bodies of water come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, but they also all share one thing in common: their ability to relax and refresh. Lucky for you, what is relaxing to Dad is nonstop excitement for the kids, and so heading to the local watering hole for your day of celebration offers the perfect balance for interests of all ages. Pack a cooler full of refreshments, maybe a special lunch for Dad made by the kids, and take in some soothing rays as you reflect on what fine kids you’ve raised. (Like any good dad, don’t forget the sunscreen.)
3. Family Trekking: With the hectic pace of work and kids’ schedules full of school and sports, it’s hard to find time to get off the beaten path and take in the beauty of the outdoors. Since Father’s Day is a chance to get creative with your plans, it’s also a great time to escape the norm and take the family on a hike. Far from a grueling expedition, it’s easy to find trails through national or local parks that offer great hikes that are doable for both kids and parents alike. You’ll feel great after a dose of fresh air and exercise, and the kids will be thrilled at the chance to explore the great outdoors.
4. Hitting the Links: The sun glinting off the fairway. The scent of fresh clipped greens. Few sports are more relaxing than the game of golf, and if your kids are old enough, getting in a full eighteen holes is a special treat that your schedule might not generally allow. Planning to golf also gives the kids a great way to come up with a Father’s Day gift. Anything from a sleeve of balls to offering to drive the cart, it is the thought that counts, as they know the true gift is donating their time for a round of golf with Dad. Miniature golf is also another winner for the kiddies if you can’t drag them to the public course or country club.
5. Man Time:  Your little ones are your pride and joy, but sometimes the man of the house needs some time to himself too. Take advantage of Father’s Day and plan a relaxing retreat away from the stresses of daily life. Whether you want to enjoy some time alone, head out for some fun with your buddies, or relax on the couch with your favorite brew in hand, a day without interruptions might be all you need.

TIP: Upon your return from the river or lake and before you pack away your tackle box, use WD-40® Multi-Use Product to protect lures and reels from rust and corrosion