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15 Toddler-Friendly Father’s Day Activities to Celebrate Dad

Toddler-Friendly Father’s Day Activities

Celebrate Father’s Day with toddler-friendly activities that help little ones show Dad love and create lasting memories. Easy, fun ideas for the whole family.

Updated: 3 Jun 2025

Sam Fore's profile picture

Written by:

Sam Fore

Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

Father’s Day is a chance to honor the dads who do it all—from midnight diaper changes to silly toddler dance parties. While your little one might not be ready to plan the day solo, there are plenty of toddler-friendly Father’s Day activities that make celebrating sweet, simple, and fun for everyone.

These activities are easy to set up, age-appropriate, and guaranteed to make Dad feel loved—no stress, no sugar highs (well, maybe just a little), and lots of giggles.

The toddler years are messy, magical, and full of firsts. Riley helps parents track milestones, capture sweet moments, and support each other along the way. Make this Father’s Day a reflection of your family’s love and rhythm, with Riley by your side.

1. Create Handprint Art for Dad

Turn tiny hands into masterpieces with paint, paper, and a heartfelt message like “Hands Down, Best Dad Ever!”

2. Toddler-Hosted Backyard Picnic

Spread a blanket and serve simple snacks like cheese cubes, fruit, and mini sandwiches. Let your toddler help “serve” Dad.

3. Make a “Why I Love Dad” Video

Record your toddler saying a few words (or sounds!) about Dad—these clips become treasures over the years.

4. Go on a Toddler Nature Walk

Explore your yard or a nearby park. Collect leaves, rocks, and flowers to make a nature collage for Dad.

5. Host a Pajama Dance Party

Put on Dad’s favorite tunes and let your toddler show off their moves. Bonus points for matching outfits.

6. Cook a Father’s Day Breakfast Together

Let your toddler help pour, stir, or sprinkle toppings on pancakes. The mess is part of the memory!

7. Decorate a “Dad Crown”

Cut and decorate a simple paper crown with crayons, stickers, and glitter. Dad rules the day!

8. Read Dad-Themed Books Together

Snuggle up with stories like “I Love My Daddy Because...” or “My Dad Is Amazing.” Bonus if your toddler turns the pages.

9. Create a Footprint Path to a Surprise

Paint little feet and make a trail to a card, gift, or hug station. Dad follows the path to love!

10. Have a Toddler Art Show

Display your toddler’s doodles and scribbles gallery-style and walk Dad through it like he’s at a museum.

11. Build a Fort and Read Stories

Use couch cushions and blankets to make a “Dad and Me” hideaway. Pack it with snacks and books.

12. Blow Bubbles in the Backyard

It’s simple, magical, and perfect for toddlers. Make a bubble “tunnel” for Dad to walk through.

13. Do a DIY Toddler Photoshoot

Capture funny faces, hugs, and matching outfits with Dad. Use props like signs that say “Happy Father’s Day!”

14. Make a Father’s Day Snack Plate

Arrange toddler-safe foods in a fun way—like a smiley face made of fruit or “Dad’s Favorite Dips” tray.

15. Plan a Stroller Walk or Wagon Parade

Let your toddler “pull” Dad along in a decorated wagon or join a Father’s Day stroll around the neighborhood.

FAQs About Toddler Father’s Day Activities

Q: What can toddlers do for Father’s Day?

A: Toddlers can help with crafts, assist in simple cooking, participate in outdoor play, or give hugs and snuggles. Small gestures mean a lot!

Q: How can I make Father’s Day special with a young toddler?

A: Focus on shared time, like reading, dancing, or a picnic. Keep things simple, short, and centered around connection.

Q: Are there Father’s Day gifts toddlers can help make?

A: Yes! Handprint art, decorated picture frames, and snack plates are all great DIY gifts toddlers can “help” create.

Q: What if our toddler is too young to participate much?

A: Even if your little one isn’t talking or walking yet, you can still involve them in a photo, a cuddle session, or a custom onesie that says “Happy First Father’s Day!”

Conclusion

Father’s Day with a toddler is about the little moments—grubby hugs, proud scribbles, and silly smiles. Whether your child is toddling, babbling, or just starting to say “Dada,” these activities turn ordinary moments into treasured memories.

With a little prep and a lot of love, you can give Dad a Father’s Day he’ll never forget—right from the heart of your toddler.

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