Lifestyle 5 Ways to Safely Connect with Dad on Father’s Day 6/19/2020 | By Rachel Marsh Well, this Father’s Day may look a little different than it did in year’s past. The coronavirus has changed everyone’s plans in a lot of ways – and this holiday is among the many that has taken the brunt. But! That doesn’t mean you can’t still connect with Dad this holiday to make him feel special … in the safest and most responsible way possible. Zoom or Phone Call We know, this is an obvious one – but it’s also among the most meaningful. Don’t forget to give Dad a call to check in, and keep him filled in on your end. Or, for more face-to-face interaction, give video chatting a try. From Zoom to Google Hangouts to FaceTime, video chat technology has gotten very simple to use, and many are even free. It may not be quite the same as physical interaction, but it can be comforting to see the face of a loved one. Especially if it’s been awhile. A Full Belly, a Full Heart You know what they say: the way to a father’s heart is through his stomach. You know what else they say: coronavirus doesn’t transfer through food. For centuries, people have been saying “I love you” in edible form – so if you’re unable to see each other face to face, a tasty treat may be the next best thing to a hug this year. Throw together Dad’s favorite dessert … or perhaps he has a family-famous recipe you feel bold enough to try your hand at? Or, we’ve got a very peanut buttery suggestion if you’re stumped. A Socially Distant Night at the Movies Got a favorite movie with your dad? One you grew up watching together – or simply one you have a shared passion for? Pick a time and day to watch it together … this year, from the socially distant safety of your own sofas. Bonus offspring points if you connect on the phone during the film (you’ve got to have someone to share commentary with, after all). A Little Father’s Day Vitamin D The good news about Father’s Day? Why, it’s in the summertime, of course. Pack a picnic, propose a hike, or simply set up shop with Dad at a nearby park: the coronavirus has a much lower transmission risk outdoors, so it’s a much safer bet to celebrate the holiday in the open air. Weather not cooperating? Find a nearby gazebo or pavilion – if you don’t have a covered patio at home. Hey, some people even post up in their garages! Memories of Father’s Day Past Sure, this holiday may not be the iconic Father’s Day holiday you’re used to. But you can still unearth the reminiscences of prior years. Record a video of yourself sharing a humorous (okay, or sentimental!) memory from a previous Father’s Day for a virtual walk down memory lane. Does anyone, say, remember the year of the Mickey Mouse tie? Read More Rachel Marsh Award-winning writer Rachel Marsh has written for many different sites and publications on a variety of topics. She is the multimedia editor for Seniors Guide and works hard to make sure seniors and their families have the best information possible. When she’s not writing for work, she can be found writing for fun. Really!