11 DIY Fathers Day Gifts Kids Can Make to Say I Love You

Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the dads, grandpas, and father figures who make life so special. But if you really want to make Dad feel appreciated, skip the store-bought gifts this year. There’s nothing more meaningful than a handmade present from little hands.

DIY Fathers Day gifts are a heartfelt way for kids to show their love while having fun with paints, glue sticks, and glitter. Whether you’re a parent crafting at home or a teacher planning something creative for the classroom, this guide will walk you through 11 simple, yet memorable, DIY Fathers Day gifts ideas perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Plus, we’ve included some printable options to save you time.

DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle

Whether you’re looking for quick crafts or gifts that double as keepsakes, these DIY Fathers Day Gifts ideas are sure to make this Father’s Day one to remember. Let’s get started!

1. Handprint Family Tree

Why it’s meaningful

A handprint family tree is a beautiful, symbolic gift that celebrates your family’s love. Each little handprint represents the branches of the family tree, making it a keepsake Dad will cherish for years. Frame it, and it becomes a piece of art for the wall!

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Use a large sheet of paper or canvas as your base.
  2. Paint a tree trunk and branches (or draw one with markers).
  3. Help your kids dip their hands in washable paint and press them onto the branches to represent leaves.
  4. Add names next to each handprint for a personal touch.

Best for toddlers and preschoolers!

2. “All About Dad” Printable Interview

All About dad Printable

Why it’s meaningful

Kids say the funniest (and sweetest!) things when talking about their dads. This printable lets them capture those memories in their own words, like “What’s Dad’s favorite thing to say?” or “What makes Dad happy?” It becomes a sentimental time capsule.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Print the “All About Dad” Interview template.
  2. Help younger kids answer the questions by asking them aloud.
  3. Add cute drawings or scribbles for decoration.

Perfect for toddlers with a little adult assistance.

Available in Our DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle.

3. Popsicle Stick Photo Frame

Why it’s meaningful

Combine a personal photo with a bit of creativity, and you’ve got a lifelong memory. This easy craft lets kids create something truly unique while showcasing a picture of a special moment with Dad.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Glue 4 popsicle sticks together to form a rectangle.
  2. Paint or decorate the frame with stickers, glitter, or fingerprints.
  3. Insert a printed photo and tape it to the back.

Great for preschoolers!

4. “You Rock, Dad!” Painted Rocks

Why it’s meaningful

This fun and tactile activity turns simple rocks into mini works of art. Write “You rock, Dad!” or other fun messages. They make great decorations for Dad’s desk or garden.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Collect a few smooth, clean rocks.
  2. Paint them with bright colors or patterns.
  3. Write messages using a paint pen or permanent marker.

Best for toddlers (with supervision).

DIY Fathers Day Gifts Guide

5. Father’s Day Handprint Printable

fathers day handprint printable craft

Why it’s meaningful
There’s something powerful about seeing your child’s tiny hand captured in paint. This printable turns that moment into a ready-to-frame keepsake with heartfelt messages like “Best Dad Hands Down.” It’s a quick, beautiful way for toddlers to express love in the only language they know—messy, colorful joy.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Choose your favorite template from the printable (3 designs included).
  2. Print it out on sturdy paper (8.5×11” works best).
  3. Help your child dip their hand in washable paint and press it onto the marked area.
  4. Let it dry, then add their name and the year for a personal touch.
  5. Optional: Frame it or roll it into a gift tube for a surprise!
Available in Our DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle.

6. DIY Father’s Day Coupon Book

Why it’s meaningful

This customizable coupon book is all about helping Dad out with fun and thoughtful acts of love, like “One free big hug” or “Breakfast helper for the day.” It’s empowering for kids and practical for busy dads.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Print the Father’s Day Coupon Book template.
  2. Have kids choose or write their own “coupons.”
  3. Decorate each page with drawings or stickers.
  4. Staple the pages together into a booklet.

Good for preschoolers and older kids.

7. “Dad, I Wrote a Book About You”

Dad I Wrote a Book about you

Why it’s meaningful

This fill-in-the-blank memory book is a beautifully sentimental gift that lets kids share their favorite memories, stories, and reasons they love Dad. Each page can be colored or decorated, too!

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Print the “Dad I Wrote a Book About You” template.
  2. Help kids fill in prompts like “Dad makes me laugh when…”
  3. Add drawings, stickers, or photos to personalize it further.

Ideal for preschoolers and older kids.

Available in Our DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle.

8. Crown for Dad

Why it’s meaningful

This playful craft celebrates Dad as the “King of the House” with a handmade crown. Toddlers love seeing their creations come to life when Dad wears it.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Cut a long strip of construction paper for the crown base.
  2. Add stickers, drawings, or glitter for decoration.
  3. Write “#1 Dad!” in bold letters.
  4. Staple or tape the ends together for a snug fit.

Perfect for toddlers!

9. Super Dad Cape Card

Why it’s meaningful

This creative card puts a superhero spin on Father’s Day greetings. Kids can design their own cape and share why Dad is their superhero.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Fold a piece of cardstock in half to make a card.
  2. Cut out a cape shape from colorful paper and glue it to the card.
  3. Write a fun message inside, like “You’re my hero, Dad!”

💡 Want even more creative and heartwarming Father’s Day gift ideas kids can make? Explore our complete list of Father’s Day gifts from kids — including crafts, printables, and keepsakes for all ages.

10. Father’s Day Coloring Pages

Fathers Day Coloring Pages

Why it’s meaningful

With 50 themed designs like ties, trophies, and super dads, these printable coloring pages are a simple way to create something heartfelt. Coloring also improves fine motor skills and offers a calming activity.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Print the Father’s Day Coloring Pages.
  2. Set out crayons or markers for kids to color.
  3. Scan or frame the final masterpiece for Dad.

Ideal for all ages!

Available in Our DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle.

11. Personalized Photo Collage Poster

personalized fathers day gifts, Dad Definition Template Poster

Why it’s meaningful

Combine favorite photos, quotes, and drawings into one stunning collage. Dad will love how personal and creative this gift is!

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Use the Father’s Day Photo Collage Template on Canva.
  2. Upload photos and add custom text or quotes.
  3. Print it out and frame it for a polished look.

Best for preschoolers with adult assistance.

Available in Our DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle.

Done-for -you DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle

Life gets busy, we get it. That’s why we’ve made things simple with our DIY Fathers Day Printable Gift Bundle! It includes 5 of the printable gifts featured here, ready to download and use instantly.

Five heartfelt, easy Fathers Day Printable gifts. One click. Endless memories, and it includes:

  • All About Dad Printable
  • Dad I Wrote a Book About You
  • Fathers Day Handprint Printable
  • Fathers Day Coloring Pages
  • Dad Definition Poster Canva Template
DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle

Perfect for parents and teachers who need no-prep, heartfelt gifts that save time.

👉 Get the complete DIY Fathers Day Gifts bundle here

Tips for Crafting with Kids

Crafting with toddlers doesn’t have to be chaos. With a little prep (and the right mindset), it can be one of the most joyful parts of your day. Here’s how to make it memorable—for both you and your little artist:

1- Go washable, always.

Paint on the fingers? Glue in the hair? It happens. Stock up on washable paints, markers, and glue sticks so clean-up is as quick as the craft session.

2- Prep like a pro.

Before inviting your toddler to the table, have everything laid out and ready to go—cut shapes, open glue sticks, uncap markers. This helps keep them focused and excited instead of distracted or restless.

3- Celebrate the scribbles.

Forget Pinterest perfection. That wobbly circle or smudgy handprint? It’s a masterpiece in the making. Encourage your child and remind yourself: it’s the love behind it that counts.

4- Capture the chaos.

Don’t just take a photo of the finished gift—snap pictures while they’re painting, gluing, or giggling through it all. Those messy moments often make the best memories.

Show Dad the Love He Deserves

The best gifts don’t have to cost a fortune. They’re made with little hands, big imaginations, and lots of love. This Father’s Day, mix easy printables with handmade crafts to create memories Dad will treasure forever.

👉 Get your printable bundle now!

DIY Fathers Day Gifts Bundle

Happy Father’s Day crafting! 🎉

FAQ

Q1: What’s the best Father’s Day gift toddlers can make?

Handprint crafts, like the Handprint Family Tree, are timeless and perfect for toddlers. They’re easy, fun, and always loved by Dad.

Q2: Are printable gifts really meaningful for dads?

Absolutely! Printables like the “All About Dad” interview capture memories in an authentic way. They’re quick to make and deeply personal.

Q3: Can I use these crafts in a preschool classroom?

Yes! These crafts are perfect for group settings and easily adaptable for young kids.

Q4: How can I make something personalized for Dad with little time?

Go for quick print-and-go options, like the coupon book or coloring pages. They’re thoughtful but require minimal prep.

Q5: What’s an affordable DIY gift for Father’s Day?

Painted rocks or a simple photo frame are budget-friendly and heartfelt!

Share your love