Celebrate Father’s Day In The Classroom
Father’s Day in Australia falls on the first Sunday of September — a perfect opportunity to celebrate dads, father figures, and the special people who play a caring role in children’s lives. In the classroom, picture books are a lovely way to open up conversations about family, gratitude, and love.
Whether you're planning a themed storytime, looking for writing prompts, or want to bring a little more joy into your day, here are some favourite Father’s Day picture books that younger children will adore:
My Dad is Brilliant by Nick Butterworth
A sweet and simple celebration of all the ways dads can be amazing — from being strong and brave to silly and fun. It’s perfect for younger students and great for sparking writing or drawing activities about what makes their own dad (or father figure) special.
Happy Farters Day by Zoë Foster Blake
This cheeky Aussie favourite is full of laughs — and lots of love. It’s a light-hearted, funny take on Father’s Day that’s bound to get your students giggling. A fun read-aloud that works well for breaking the ice and reminding us that dads can be hilarious too.
I Love Dad with the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
With Eric Carle’s signature illustrations and heartfelt words, this book is a sweet way for children to reflect on the little moments they love most with their dad. It’s short, gentle, and makes a perfect lead-in to making handmade Father’s Day cards or crafts.
Classroom Ideas to Extend the Reading
After sharing one (or more) of these stories, try:
Drawing or writing prompts: “I love my dad because…” or “My dad is great at…”
Crafts: Make Father’s Day cards, bookmarks, or a “coupon book” with thoughtful gifts kids can give their dads
Discussion starters: Talk about different kinds of families and father figures — uncles, grandpas, stepdads, or family friends who show love and support
Classroom Ideas for Father’s Day
Use AI to create a funny and humorous song about dads. As a class, compile your ideas, use the Suno app and play the song for dad
Invite dads into the classroom for the afternoon for doughnuts
What are your best dad’s jokes? Host a ten-minute comedy skit before home time where your students share their best dad joke.
Organise a father/son or father-daughter competition, e.g. three three-legged race, wheelbarrow race, tug a war, or some relays. Dads love a bit of competition.
Whilst not all children may have a father present in their lives, we can still celebrate any caring adult in a child's world. Encourage students to think about someone they appreciate and want to honour.
We’d love to hear about the books or activities you enjoy using to celebrate Father’s Day in your classroom. Leave a comment below and share your go-to resources with fellow teachers!
You can find previous blog posts on Fathers Day here or here or check out my Fathers Day Pinterest board here for more ideas.
