3 Ways to Make Father’s Day Special for a Dad in Recovery

Father’s Day can be a celebration of all the good deeds that a father has done for his family. For some fathers in recovery, the day can be another reminder of past regrets and of the times they let their family down. However, celebrating Father’s Day can offer the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that a father has put into turning his life around in recovery. That recognition can be renewed motivation for fathers who are in recovery and one of the best gifts a child can give.

Celebrating Dad’s Recovery

For children who want to celebrate their father’s sobriety on this special day, there are several ways that it can be commemorated. Recovery is an achievement that deserves to be recognized, and when children support their father’s sobriety, it can be a powerful motivator for him to maintain his sobriety. Having a reliable support system is a key component for long-term recovery. To make Father’s Day extra special for a dad in recovery, consider the following ideas for a memorable holiday.

Give a Personalized Present

There are plenty of gifts that are typically given on Father’s Day, from funny socks to the cliche “#1 Dad” coffee mug. For a father in recovery, one gift that can be meaningful is an engraved recovery chip. Not only does this chip commemorate how far a father has come with his sobriety, but it also shows that his family fully supports him.

Write a Heartfelt Letter

Writing a heartfelt letter is another personalized gift that can make a father smile. In a letter, various topics can be covered including:

• The progress a son or daughter has seen their father make during his recovery
• Thanking the father for choosing to pursue sobriety
• Forgiving the father for their past mistakes and supporting them in a brighter future
• Acknowledging the father’s accomplishments and expressing pride in them

Like an engraved recovery chip, a letter is something a father can carry with him at all times. A father can re-read the letter to remind him of the support he has from his family. Not only can the positive words in a letter help him persevere through challenges, but it can also give him the strength to continue his journey.

Head Out on a Family Adventure

Physical presents don’t have to be the only type of gift given this Father’s Day. Taking dad out on a family adventure is also a special event that can be beneficial for a father in recovery. Not only does a family trip give the entire family a chance to get out of the house together, but it gives the dad a chance to get some fresh air and create new memories with his family.

Some ideas for family activities include:

• Barbecuing
• Having a beach day
• Going to the zoo
• Camping
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Attending a sports game
• Bowling
• Hiking

While out on a family adventure, fathers in recovery may discover new activities that are healthy outlets for their emotions. Having a healthy outlet for expressing emotions is essential, not just for fathers in recovery, but for anyone who struggles with a substance use disorder. Discovering new places and hobbies can also lift a father’s spirits if he is having a hard time during his recovery.

If your father has not yet taken his first steps in sobriety, The Recovery Village® can help. For more information on programs, locations and insurance coverage, call one of our representatives. Calls are toll-free and completely confidential.