Brief History
A woman named Sonora Smart Dodd conceived the idea for Father’s Day. She had wanted to create a special day to honor her own father, William Jackson Smart, who was a Civil War veteran. He also was a single parent, who had raised six children after her mother had died. Sonora originally wanted the celebration to occur on the anniversary of her father’s birth, however, that was not feasible. The first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. The holiday endured many years of political hardship. It was finally enacted as an official holiday in 1972.
Exploring: The Mother of Father’s Day – A Story
Fatherhood Movement
Although Father’s Day was conceived as one daughters’ tribute to her own father’s greatness, the holiday in modern times has taken on different meanings for different people. Some children do not have a traditional father figure in their homes, so they may choose to honor another male parent who may hold a special place in the their heart. What a wonderful day it is to honor all fathers!
Traditions
The more common tradition of the celebration might include breakfast in bed, King for a day, special meals, and quirky gifts. Red flowers may be worn for fathers who are still alive and white flowers are worn for fathers who have passed. However the day is celebrated, Father’s Day is one day in which we can all honor our everyday heroes.
My Father, My Hero – A Lesson
It might be a nice idea to place photos around the room (if using this as a classroom activity) of the children’s fathers. The photo can be affixed to a colored background with a caption that reads, “My Hero.” Please be sensitive of the children who may not have an earthly father. Remind all that Heavenly Father will watch over all of us and take care of our needs because he loves us so much.
1. What is a hero?
2. Do you have any heroes in your life?
3. Why do you think or what makes that person is a hero?
4. Make up a list of characteristics of a hero (i.e. courageous, noble, Christ- like, cool, honest, faithful, etc.).
5. Does your hero possess all of these qualities?
6. Lead the discussion into how a father or father figure may fit the
description of hero.
Scriptures:
Proverbs 4:1 Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
Proverbs 4:2 For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
Discuss what this scripture might mean to the kids. Fathers are wise. How many actually listen to their father? Sometimes fathers are not always wise, but Heavenly Father forgives them just as he forgives us. Can you think of some things that your father tells you all the time? Is it wise or not? (i.e. Do I look like I’m made of money? [no]; The sun always rises and sets again tomorrow [yes].)
Sing: My Father Taught Me
Discussion
Discuss biblical heroes especially those who were fathers (choose one or two and show pictures if you have them available). They all had one thing in common, although they may have made mistakes as they went along, they all had faith in Heavenly Father. Discuss how they were blessed when they obeyed God.
Gift Ideas:
Tool Belt – you will need a cloth tool belt (can be purchased at Wal-Mart) and a variety of fabric paint. Allow the children to decorate the pockets of the tools belt.
T-Shirt –you will need a t-shirt (any color) and a variety of fabric paint. Write on one side: “My kids lovingly walk all over me.” Then paint the children’s feet and make press their feet to the shirt. Don’t forget to wipe their feet before they dash off!
Hero Sandwich – list the ingredients of a hero sandwich. Then make up qualities to go with each food item. For example, cheese – aged and wise or roll - full of the spirit.
