Father’s Day without the kids

Separation and estrangement from family can be tough any day of the year, but Father’s Day can bring up a heightened sense of loss and longing. As parenting from a distance becomes more common, you may be spending Father’s Day without your kids. This can be a difficult time for both fathers and children.

Alternative ways to spend Father’s Day

Connect online

If your physical presence isn’t possible, consider celebrating Father’s Day online. Set up a video call or plan activities that can be enjoyed together remotely, such as playing online games, watching a movie simultaneously, or sharing a virtual meal.

You can also send a heartfelt message to your kids, letting them know you are thinking of them.

Focus on self-care and activities you like doing

If you don’t get to see your kids and are worried about how you’ll feel, surround yourself with people and activities you enjoy doing. Here are some ideas and alternative ways to spend Father’s Day:

• Head along to a sporting match (local footy, rugby) – with or without some mates.
• Drive out or catch the bus to a new location and go for a hike: it’s active and connecting with nature is good for your mental health.
• If your dad, uncle, or an older friend is nearby and potentially spending the day alone too, head over for a chat or a game of cards.
• Tackle that project you’ve been avoiding – clean out the shed, fix the fence, sort out the linen cupboard.
• Organise a group of mates for a game of backyard cricket.
• Get experimental in the kitchen. How great would it be to rock up to work with some treats for everyone? Cooking and baking are great ways to use your hands and create something that just so happens to taste good.
• Find some free local music and go check it out. Maybe it’s a style of music you’ve never enjoyed before, give something new a try!
• A quiet day could be the perfect opportunity start a new book or see a movie you’ve been wanting to check out.
• You can just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Dealing with disappointment

Placing too much weight on one day and its importance can result in disappointment for you and others involved. While it’s easier said than done for some, consider playing things down on Father’s Day to make sure that you’re not overwhelmed.

If you find that special occasions cause stress for you and your family, it may be simpler to maintain the routine you already have for this day and treat it like any other Sunday. We know that kids thrive on routine so maintaining the status quo could be the best thing for your children and your relationship with them.

If you can, plan a time to catch up in the future. Maybe Father’s Day won’t work out this year, but any day is a great day when you’re connecting with other people.

If you are struggling or feeling sad, our MensLine counsellors are here 24/7 and the service is free. Call at any time on 1300 78 99 78.