Father's day is this Sunday where I live (Switzerland) and coming up June 19 in the US, so it's time to think about what our working Dads need. Remember this isn't necessarily a present guide (although some of these work great as gifts), but a list of what working Dads think make their own lives easier. I asked my readers for their suggestions and here is what the Dads say they need.
1. Audio Books.
If the Dad in your life has a commute, an audio book or an audio book subscription can make the commute a pleasant time instead of a stressful time. Unless your audio book is a thriller and then you just swap the kind of stress.
2. Wireless Speakers/Headphones.
When dad gets the opportunity to telecommute, wireless noise canceling headphones can drown out the noise of the little darlings, if they are home. (Remember, you need someone watching the little ones while you're working, even if you're working at home). If you can blast music throughout the house, a wireless speaker is the way to go. Several dads recommend Amazon's new Alexa, which allows you to easily tap into many streaming music services.
3. A smart thermostat.
Lots of Dads have a reputation for frugality. With a smart thermostat, Dad only pays to heat or cool the house when everyone arrives home from work or school. Some can even be activated by GPS-so as you're headed home, your system can turn the air conditioning on. Awesome.
4. A really awesome grill.
A Traeger Wood Fired Grill was the enthusiastic winner among the dads. Don't forget the remote thermometer so that you can check on your meat from the comfort of your air conditioned house.
5. A Yeti tumbler.
Brand matters here. Working Dad and Police Officer, Robert O'Callaghan, said, "My Yeti...Best cup ever. I own two and have bought 12 others as gifts. Did I tell you how much I love my Yeti? Almost as much as my guns." If you know Robert, you'd know that's a lot of love and a ringing endorsement.
6. Laundry service.
Even with business casual now the norm, most men's button down shirts still have to be ironed. If that's the case, there's nothing that makes life easier than a good laundry service that can return perfectly washed and ironed shirts. Saves Dad a ton of time in the mornings if he doesn't have to iron.
7. Instant PotThis came up with something every working mom needs as well-clearly it's a gender neutral necessity for any household. Dinner can go from frozen meat to on the table in 30 minutes. What Dad wouldn't love that?
8. A good ice pack or heat pack.
Dad still does a lot of physical things, even if he has a desk job. Whether's he's crouched over helping a kid learn to ride a bike, or crawling under a desk to reconnect printer cables, a good fix for those aches and pain is a necessity.
9. Manly baby gear.
Moms are still overwhelmingly the primary caregivers for babies, but dads do more and more, and they need stuff too. How about a diaper bag that reflects his style and personality? Or a stroller with long handles so that he doesn't hurt his back pushing it? Or a baby carrier that isn't all flowery, and is big enough for him to wear comfortably? Dads love and need this stuff.
10. A night out with mom.
Dads need some down time as well. And who do they want it with? Their wives. While some dads said they wanted a boys night out, most wanted time alone with their wives--a quality date night. So, find a reliable babysitter and get out of the house so Dad can unwind without the pressure of work or kids. A win for everyone.
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