Top tips: Supporting parents with Father’s Day celebrations  

Father’s Day can be a joyful time for many, but it’s important to recognise that it may also bring up complex feelings for some children, families and staff members. Whether due to bereavement, absence, different family structures, or other personal circumstances, every family’s experience is unique. Nursery practitioners play a key role in ensuring that Father’s Day celebrations are handled with care, inclusivity, and sensitivity.

Top tips for supporting parents with Father’s Day

  • Communicate early and openly – let parents know in advance what your setting plans to do for Father’s Day. This gives families time to share any concerns or personal circumstances in confidence 
  • Use inclusive language – frame activities around celebrating ‘special people’ or ‘important grown-ups’ rather than focusing solely on fathers, to include all family dynamics (e.g. grandfathers, step-parents, mums, carers) 
  • Be mindful – ensure wall displays and group discussions around the day reflect a range of family situations and avoid assumptions about home life 
  • Provide alternative options – offer the option to make something for any special person in the child’s life. Consider celebrating the day as ‘Family Day’ or ‘Special Person’s Day’ to be more inclusive 
  • Check in with children – be attentive to children’s feelings as the day approaches. Some may express worries or sadness. Acknowledge their feelings and offer reassurance in age-appropriate ways 
  • Be sensitive and show compassion – train and remind staff to approach Father’s Day with empathy, understanding that some children and team members might find this a difficult or confusing time 
  • Celebrate diversity – use this as an opportunity to talk about different families and the many forms love and care can take, fostering respect and inclusion 
  • Respect privacy – keep individual family circumstances confidential and ensure any sensitive conversations with parents or carers are handled discreetly. 
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Disclaimer: Activities with children must always be risk assessed, including for allergies or choking. Children must always have adequate supervision. Resources and materials must always be appropriate for children’s age and stage of development.

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