Sure, you could wrap up another bottle of aftershave or a novelty mug. But if you’re looking to give Dad something truly special this Father’s Day — something that actually sticks — try stories. Reading together isn’t just lovely in the moment, it’s the kind of tradition that echoes for years.

Whether it’s sharing a favourite book from childhood or discovering a new one together, a Father’s Day reading ritual helps build memories and a love of reading. Win-win.

Why Reading With Dad Matters

We all know that reading with kids is a Good Thing™ — but when dads get involved, something extra magical can happen. Here’s why:

  • It brings you closer. Reading side-by-side creates proper one-on-one time (aka no phones, no distractions — just you, your child, and a great story).
  • It builds confidence. Kids who regularly read with a parent are more likely to become happy, independent readers. (You can practically see the brain growing.)
  • It boosts literacy. Children benefit from hearing different voices, vocabulary, and perspectives — especially when Dad brings his own storytelling style to the mix.
  • It makes books feel fun. When children see that grown-ups enjoy reading too, they’re more likely to pick up a book themselves.

Need more tips on helping your child learn to read? Pop over to our Helping Children Learn to Read guide.

Starting Your Own Father’s Day Book Tradition

You don’t need grand plans — just a little time and a couple of books. Here are some easy, cosy ways to make reading part of your Father’s Day celebration:

Start the Day with a Story

Before the breakfast crumbs hit the carpet, snuggle up and read a favourite book together. A nostalgic classic or a laugh-out-loud new one — anything that makes you both smile.

Make a DIY Reading Nook

Pile up pillows, throw down a blanket, and build your very own Father’s Day story fort. Bonus points if you bring snacks.

Swap Stories from When Dad Was Little

Whether it’s a favourite book from childhood or a tale about the time Dad got stuck up a tree, kids love hearing their grown-ups’ stories. (Even the embarrassing ones.)

Add a Dash of Creativity

If your little reader is more wriggle than sit-still, try turning your reading time into an activity:

Create Your Own Bookmarks

Design personalised bookmarks together using card, stickers, glitter, googly eyes — go wild. They’re fun to make and surprisingly useful.

Write a Book (Yes, Really)

Start with a silly sentence and take turns adding to it. Or fold some paper into a mini book and illustrate your own epic tale — dragons, spaceships, missing socks… whatever you fancy.

Chat About the Book Over Dinner

Talk about the story while munching on a favourite meal. Try questions like:

  • Which character was the funniest / bravest / most annoying?
  • If you could jump into the story, what would you do?
  • What do you think happens after the last page?

Keep the Habit Going (No Tie Required)

Of course, reading together doesn’t need to be a once-a-year event. If your Father’s Day book time goes down a treat, here’s how to keep it going:

  • Set a weekly ‘Story with Dad’ slot. Bedtime, Saturday mornings, post-bath snuggles… pick what works and stick with it.
  • Start a low-key family book club. Choose a book everyone can enjoy and chat about it over dinner or a hot chocolate.
  • Try something new. Explore different types of books — mystery, poetry, comics, non-fiction. It keeps things interesting and shows kids how wide the world of reading really is.

Need help picking the right books? We’ve got you covered: Tips on Choosing Books

How Reading Chest Makes It Easier

One of the trickiest parts of reading together is always having the right books on hand. That’s where Reading Chest steps in. We send carefully levelled reading books straight to your door — no hunting through library shelves or panic-buying in the supermarket book aisle.

One Last Thought…

Father’s Day doesn’t need to be flashy. Sometimes the best gifts are the simplest: time, stories, laughter, connection. If you spend part of the day curled up with a good book and your child beside you, we’d call that a perfect celebration.

And if you want to keep the bookish magic going all year round? Learn more about Reading Chest and how we can support your family’s reading journey.

We’d love to see how your family celebrates with stories! Share your Father’s Day reading moments with us on Twitter/X, Facebook, or Instagram. Let’s spread the book love!