K.I.S.S. for Dad on Father’s Day

Clear the socks and undies drawer; straighten up the tie rack; make some fridge space for the choccies, Father’s Day is fast approaching.

Retailers would like us to believe that what Dad really needs this Father’s Day is the latest iPhone, the newest Navman (the one that won’t create a need to tell him to do a U Turn where possible) or a 60 inch Plasma.

Our letterboxes will again be overflowing with catalogues suggesting that the average family income is in line with half our nation’s national debt, if we are to afford their Father’s Day bargains.

Thankfully though, the average Aussie kid is smarter than the advertising spin gurus.

I discovered this when I surveyed a class of seven year olds, asking what they most loved about their fathers and, (supposing they could give him any present in the world), what they would like to give their dad for Father’s Day?

Young Brad set his sights high: “I would give him the world.”

James was philosophical: “Love and beer” was on the list for his dad.

Isaac wrote that his dad is: “A counter of money,” (translation accountant from Isaac’s teacher), and added: “I would like to give him a bear.”

Would that be a teddy bear Isaac?

No, this was, after all, an Australian survey; it was in fact a “beer”.

Matthew was more detailed in his planning. His dad would dine on “freshly cooked prawns, and a bear,” (now unless Matt’s dad is an awfully big bloke, I am guessing that’s also a beer).  Matthew had dad’s best interests at heart as well, the final gift being “a running machine” – yep, all bases covered Matt.

Jessie’s answers were brief. What did Jessie love most about his dad? “I love him.” What does Jessie’s dad do for a quid? “In the bush.”  What would he most like to give dad for Father’s Day? “A book.”  (I’m guessing life is pretty straight forward round Jessie’s place).

When asked what they loved most about their dads, many answers were about the love and care that dad provided.

Perhaps Samantha summed it up best: “He is just the way he is.”

Brittney’s dad was obviously a multi-skilling dad: “My dad’s a plumber and a office worker who types up notes,” she wrote, adding that she would give her dad:  “A trip to Sydney with the family.”

Mostly, the girls chose practical gifts, sprinkled with a liberal dose of affection.

“Great big hugs, breakfast in bed and the paper,” was a common theme, and of course: “His favourite biscuits,” (all washed down with a cleansing bear I suspect).

Although Nicholas and Daniel took a more commercial line on Father’s Day, it was encouraging that their answers maintained a definite Aussie flavour: “A new cricket bat, new cricket gloves and new cricket pads,” wrote Nicholas. “A Ute,” wrote Daniel.

Chloe said she loved her dad because “He is in my heart, and he cares for me.” What does Chloe’s dad do for a job? “He mows the lawn and cleans the house.” (Now there’s a dad after mum’s heart). Chloe said she would give her dad: “love and a kiss – and also a karaoke.” Fair enough, nothing like a bit of ACDC, whilst you’re dusting up a storm.

It was pleasing to discover that commercialism had failed to infiltrate the minds of these precious seven year olds.

What they most wanted to give their dad on Father’s Day was what they most liked to receive from him – love and care.

Their message?

K.I.S.S. – Keep It Simple, Stupid!