For many children, fathers are their first heroes – someone to look up to, to lean on, and to dream of becoming one day. Daughters often see their fathers as protectors, while sons aspire to be like them. Fathers are role models, sources of love, and steady guides through life.
A brief history of Father’s Day
Father’s Day began in the early 20th century, inspired by the success of Mother’s Day. Sonora Smart Dodd, who was raised by a widowed father, wanted to honour him with a similar celebration. In 1910, she organised the first Father’s Day in Spokane, Washington, USA.
Over time, the tradition spread across the United States, and by 1972, it was officially recognised as a national holiday. In Australia, the first official Father’s Day was held in 1958. Unlike in the US (the third Sunday of June), Australians celebrate it on the first Sunday of September.
Father’s Day celebrations around the world
- Third Sunday of June – United States, United Kingdom, France, and many Asian countries
- March 19 – Spain, Italy, Croatia
- First Sunday of September – Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea
- Second Sunday of November – Norway, Sweden, Finland
- December 5 – Thailand
- August 8 – China
- June 5 – Denmark (combined with Constitution Day)
Why do we celebrate fathers
Father’s Day recognises the vital role of fathers in the family. Today, their role extends beyond being breadwinners – they are caregivers, mentors, and active participants in household life.
Fathers often make sacrifices to give their children healthy, happy lives. Some even choose to be stay-at-home dads if it makes sense for their family – a shift from past generations where such choices were rarely accepted in the Philippines or elsewhere.
Single fathers deserve recognition, too, balancing both parenting roles with courage and devotion. Whether strict or soft-spoken, fathers carry deep affection that shapes a child’s character well into adulthood.
Ways to make dads happy
- Spend quality time together
- Create a collage of memorable family photos
- Put together a gift basket with his favourite tools or gadgets
- Write a heartfelt card with personal dedications
- Cook his favourite dishes for a family meal
- Take him to his preferred restaurant
- Surprise him with tickets to a concert, game, or event he enjoys
A thought to remember
Though fathers may be quiet in showing emotions, their love runs deep. Early bonds between fathers and children help form resilience and confidence that last into adulthood. Father’s Day reminds us not just to celebrate fathers once a year – but to honour them every day.
As one quote from Shutterfly beautifully says:
“Fathers are the sons’ first hero, and daughters’ first love.”
Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers!
Excerpted from the book My Passion My Calling by Lorna Ramirez
www.lornasbook.com
Through the eyes of the children
Their parents are their role models and heroes
Therefore, it is the responsibility of every parent
To set a high standard to be able to produce
Future responsible adults
