Let's get this out of the way: Stay-at-home dads are good for everyone. It's weird this has to be mentioned, but with some folks still getting used to the idea of (gasp!) the other parent watching over a child full-time, it's an important note to make. As one NYC dad put it once, "any dad is truly capable of being an at-home dad if they have the support and the means to do it."
Now, this isn't to say that stay-at-home parents are completely the same. Each face their own wins, struggles, and biases. And SAHDs have their unique experiences to call upon. For example, there's no reason why stay-at-home-dads have their manliness questioned — whatever that means anyone. These men deserve just as much respect and recognition as mothers who stay at home do.
This is why we want to celebrate those dads. But in particular, this Father's Day, we think they should have gifts hand-picked especially for them. We wanted to find them gifts that pay homage to what they do or make it easier, which is why we included an item like a mini-pancake maker. We also wanted to just find gifts they'd enjoy as humans (like taco socks!), because if we were doing this list for moms, that's the way it'd be done. We'd wanted them to have some gifts that spoke to their needs and tasks as a parent, but also ones that just said, "because you need a rest and a laugh, mmkay?" Stay-at-home parents are still humans with likes, dislikes, needs, and wants. Neither of their identities simply become a SAHM or SAHD. But they just make it a part of who they are.
So what we came up with was the following: a list of fun, useful, and stay-at-home dad type of gifts the MANager of the kiddos will enjoy and appreciate this year. For many of them, the whole family may enjoy, too. As long as dad is happy, that's all that matters.
Stay-At-Home Dad T-Shirt
Let dad say it loud and proud that he's a stay-at-home parent. This black T-shirt can do it for him: It reads "Stay-at-home dad. Have fun at work tomorrow losers"
Stay-At-Home Dad T-Shirt ($16, Amazon)
Taco Crew Socks
Whether dad just loves cool socks or he wants something fun to wear at the trampoline park, this taco pair is sure to be a hit. The kids will sure find them amusing!
Taco Crew Socks ($13, Always Fits)
'Life is Short. Laundry Is Eternal: Confessions of a Stay-At-Home Dad' Book
Scott Benner's book is a raw and funny look at the life of a stay-at-home dad that others in his position will be able to relate to. Ironically, it was named a 2013 Mom's Choice Award Winner.
Life is Short. Laundry Is Eternal: Confessions of a Stay-At-Home Dad ($15, Amazon)
Dad Baby Pocket Shirt
Who says dads can't carry a baby in style? Not us. This baby-pocket shirt from Lalabu is "the first babywearing shirt designed exclusively for dads" and doesn't require any sort of wraps, ties, or buckles. Easy-peasy.
Dad Baby Shirt ($75, Lalabu)
Photo Travel Tumbler
Show off the little one's face while running errands. This tumbler features personalized photos for dad to have his crew with him wherever he goes.
Photo Travel Tumbler ($35, LadyBeeBoutique/Etsy)
Papa Bear Mug
Dads deserve cool "papa" mugs, like this papa bear one with a big black bear on both sides. The camp-style enamel mug can hold 10 ounces of liquid.
Papa Bear Enamel Mug ($16, WillowMugs/Etsy)
Dad's Ice Cream Spoon
If dad is managing the home during the day, he should get some sort of respite in ice cream, right? Aside from ice cream being good, (duh!) it's a treat he can share with the kids (they're gonna ask anyway). But make it special for dad by getting him a special spoon to eat it.
Dad's Ice Cream Spoon ($9, TrendBendersArtistry/Etsy)
Quicksilver Diaper Backpack
Stay-at-home dads (and moms) have "at-home" in their titles, but it doesn't mean they're mostly at home — in fact, it can be the opposite. Make sure dad can carry the playdate or errand essentials in style with a black diaper backpack.
Quicksilver Diaper Backpack ($65, Nordstrom)
Father's Day Personalized Photo Frame
Mark the moment he first saw his little one with a personalized photo frame. This one has a space to feature a photo and another image, along with a message underneath. Cue the tears!
Father's Day Personalized Photo Frame ($35, TheStarsAboveCo/Etsy)
Hidrate Spark Smart Water Bottle
Taking care of kids is an intense job, so help make sure dad stays hydrated. This smart water bottle can do it for him. It can track water intake and glows when its owner needs more.
Hidrate Spark Smart Water Bottle ($65, Amazon)
Men's Classic French Terry Sweatpant
Taking care of kids can be both comfy and put-together with these terry cotton sweatpants. This pair comes in a slim tapered fit with a back pocket (for bottles?).
Men's Classic French Terry Sweatpant ($55, Everlane)
All-Purpose Pantry Towels
These aren't just regular towels, they're all-purpose towels. Like 3-in-1 men's shampoo, these babies can wipe up the kitchen counter or clean up a mess off the floor. Whatever dad needs.
All-Purpose Pantry Towels ($20, Williams Sonoma)
Mr. Coffee 4 Cup Switch Coffee Maker
Dads need coffee, too. Works days, even if they're spent caring for little ones, are long and a little caffeine can help. This Mr. Coffee brewer has a "Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause" that stops mid-brew if a cup is needed in that moment, which, when kids dictate the schedule, is often necessary.
Mr. Coffee 4 Cup Switch Coffee Maker ($15, Target)
Nonstick Silver Dollar Pancake Pan
Dads are often associated with pancakes (they're good!), so why not give him a gift that'll feed a small team and himself. This skillet comes with seven spaces to cook delicious mini pancakes.
Nonstick Silver Dollar Pancake Pan ($33, Amazon)
Dual Chamber Water Bottle
Dad could probably pack sippy cups and snacks in his sleep, but he shouldn't forget about himself! Whether he's on the go or at the gym for some him-time, this dual chamber water bottle can both quench his thirst and feed his cravings.
Dual Chamber Water Bottle ($35, Amazon)
Canon EOS Rebel DSLR Camera
This one is a splurge but worth it if dad loves taking photos of life with the little ones. This Canon EOS Rebel camera kit includes two different lenses and a bag.
Canon EOS Rebel DSLR Camera ($399, Best Buy)
Netflix Subscription
It's rare to find someone who doesn't have Netflix these days, but covering a month or two for dad as a gift is a thoughtful and useful gesture. If has shows and movies for both kids and adults.
Netflix Subscription (prices vary)
Shower Beer Holder
A lot of people like a cold one after a long day, and well, dad can have one, too, if he likes. With kids running around, a shower beer may be most optimal.
Shower Beer Holder ($15, Uncommon Goods)
Personalized Dad's Coupon Book
Sometimes, dads just want a nap, or time to kick back. Or lots of kisses! Give it all to him with a coupon book meant just for him.
Personalized Dad's Coupon ($11, Gifts for You Now)
'My Dad Loves Me!' Personalized Book
Yes, we know this is a children's book and, so maybe, the kids will enjoy it. But, a personalized My Dad Loves Me! book is really for pops. The text includes the child's name for a sweet and close-to-home story time.
My Dad Loves Me! ($35, Put Me In The Story)
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, Cafemom may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
