A Day to Remember: Free Meaningful Ideas for a First Father’s Day

Hey mums — let’s talk about something special.

Father’s Day 2025 (15th June) is coming up, and if it’s your partner’s first one as a dad, this is a golden opportunity to celebrate his journey into fatherhood, without spending a fortune.

This guide is full of free (or nearly free!) ways to create magical, meaningful memories with your little one and their proud new dad. Whether you're after thoughtful keepsake ideas, fun bonding activities, or just want to make him feel truly appreciated, we’ve got you.

Creating Family Memories

Planning the perfect First Father's Day doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. It's all about creating memorable experiences that celebrate the unique bond between Dad and baby while also creating a space to celebrate being together as a family - something that can be difficult during the day-to-day grind.

A great place to start is by considering Dad's interests and hobbies. Is he an outdoor enthusiast? A movie buff? Or perhaps a foodie? Use these as inspiration for your plans. For instance, a nature-loving dad might appreciate a family picnic in a local park, or a nice walk in nature. A movie buff might enjoy an at-home movie afternoon with popcorn and his favourite treats, plus he gets to pick the film - no complaints!

If you have older kids, remember to involve them in the planning process. If they're too young to participate actively, you can create activities that foster bonding between father and child. Something as simple as a "Daddy and me" photo shoot can become a cherished tradition, especially if you can keep the same pose to see the difference in each of them as the years go on.

Many of the most special moments come from the heart. A handwritten letter expressing your appreciation for his role as a father can be more impactful than any expensive gift.

🎉 Celebrate Your First Family Father’s Day

The first Father’s Day is more than just a lie-in, it’s a moment to pause and say, “You’re doing a great job, and we see you.” Even if he has been driving you mad! Creating moments to recognize each other's efforts is an important part of your journey as a family together.

So, how do you make the day feel special, even on a tight budget or limited sleep?

💡 Free & Thoughtful Father's Day Ideas for First-Time Dads

Here are some low-effort, high-heart ideas that are completely free, but guaranteed to make him feel loved:

🫙 1. "Why You’re an Amazing Dad" Jar

Fill a jar with handwritten notes — one for each thing you love about how he’s showing up as a dad. Just keep an old jam jar and give it a wash. Sweet, funny or personal — mix up your little notes of love!

✍️ 2. A Letter from You (and Baby)

Write a short heartfelt letter to thank him for everything — and include a little “message” from baby too (bonus points if baby signs it in finger paint!).

📸 3. DIY Photo Album or Slideshow

Use photos from your baby’s first year to create a mini digital slideshow or printed booklet. Include little captions or quotes that reflect your family journey. If you don't have the time to get it printed, just keep a Father's Day 2025 Digital Album with a few of your favourite pictures. It will be invaluable in the years to come and give you an easy way to find your favourite photos.

💻 4. Surprise Video Messages

Ask close family or friends to record a short message about their favourite “new dad” moment. This one takes a bit more effort but you can keep all the videos in a little "Fathers Day 2025" Folder as individual messages. Not only will it mean a lot to him, but it can be a lovely keepsake. Don't forget to get one for yourself about why you are such an amazing Mom!

📷 Capture the Magic

Creating memories is lovely — but capturing them is what makes them last.

Here’s how to record those heart-melting moments:

• Assign a photographer (friend, grandma, tripod!)
• Take a mix of posed and candid shots – the silly and the sleepy ones are gold
• Record short video clips of Dad and baby together throughout the day, and make sure you get in there too.
• Do a quick “interview” asking him about his favourite Dad moments so far, and get him to do the same with you. The action of sharing your thoughts and feelings is also a great way to keep connected.

Later, you can put everything together into a scrapbook, photo book, or video montage. Even a simple folder on your phone can become a keepsake you’ll look back on every year.

👕 Budget-Friendly Keepsake Gift Ideas

If you want to add something small and tangible? These ideas don’t cost much but can feel incredibly personal and be practical, so they get used a lot and act as a great reminder.

- A custom mug with baby’s handprint or footprint

- A framed photo or print of baby’s first scan or first family photo

- A DIY voucher book with tokens like “Your favourite dinner” or “1 baby-free nap"

The first Father’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful.

It's about acknowledging this massive life shift, showing your partner that you see him, and starting a tradition that celebrates the bond between him and your little one.  He might also get the hint for Mother's Day!

Whether it’s a handwritten note, a matching tee, or just time spent together — make it count. These are the moments you'll both remember forever.

View our specially curated gifts at presentsfordad.uk