When it comes to Father’s Day, it’s the small, helpful, and thoughtful things that count, right? At least, that’s the consensus amongst the dads here among the Maintracts team. With this in mind, we thought we would share some of our favourite little ways to give the dad or father figure in your life a day off this year, and maybe a smile, too!
Here are some age-appropriate tasks and ideas on how the rest of the household can step up and help out on Father’s Day, so dad can do what he does best – relax, nap with the TV on, or potter in the garage! As you would expect from a group of plumbers and heating engineers, a lot of them are related to our trade!
For Younger Children
(Ages 4 - 8)
The key with little ones is to keep it safe, simple, and supervised. These ideas fit the bill:
Become Dad’s “Mini Maintenance Crew”
Help wipe down the door handles and radiators, organise the kitchen cupboards, sort out the recycling, tidy the ‘messy’ drawer, or give your bedroom a spritz and put away unused toys.
Undertake Garden Patrol!
Pick up leaves, water plants, sweep the patio, dust off the garden furniture, hunt for bugs, or take a family trip to the local garden centre to choose a new plant, herb, fruit, vegetable, or some sunflower seeds to plant up when you get home and compete for the tallest. While you are there, you could treat dad to some coffee and cake too.
Be A Laundry Superhero
Sort socks by colour and match them all up.
Be A Tools Assistant
If dad isn’t one to sit down and put his feet up, why not be his apprentice for the day. If he’s tackling some DIY, you can be on hand to pass him over the right screwdriver, or if he’s washing his car, you can dunk his sponge when he needs a refresh.
Make A ‘Dad Voucher’
Create vouchers for hugs, snacks, a massage, or a free household task to be done later in the week.
For Tweens
(Ages 9 - 12)
This age group thrives on being given some real responsibility:
Organise The Garage Or Shed
Sort out the tools, sweep the floor, stack wood neatly, make a ‘donate’ pile for any outgrown toys or gadgets.
Check For Leaky Taps
You could create your own “home maintenance log” and report on anything dripping.
Be On Deep Clean Duty
Ask dad to assign you a room to hoover, dust, or tidy - maybe even dad’s “man cave.”
Create A Chill Zone
Set up dad’s favourite chair with snacks, headphones/book, and a drink, and let him enjoy the peace for a few hours!
Bake Him A Cake Or Favourite Dessert
If good food is the way to his heart, he’ll appreciate the effort that goes into a homemade treat.
For Teens (Ages 13+)
Let this age group tackle the real ‘adult’ jobs - they’ll secretly love the trust. You could suggest some of the following ideas:
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Conduct A DIY Check-Up
Test all the lightbulbs, smoke alarms, and thermostat batteries.
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Clear Out Gutters Or Drains
With supervision, a safe ladder, and gloves, tackle the gutters and drains – dad will be super grateful for this one.
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Wash His Car
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Bleed The Radiators
Get mum or dad to show you how to bleed a radiator (or follow our video guide), and then you can do the rest with minimal supervision.
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Fire Up The BBQ Or Make A Breakfast Feast
Handle household meals for the day so dad can relax. There’s no better way to enjoy Father’s Day than with family and food!
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Check Boiler Pressure
With a bit of guidance, this will ensure another job is ticked off Dad’s ‘to-do’ list.
Bonus Tip: Give Dad the Gift of a Serviced Boiler
If you prefer to let the professionals handle the serious stuff - like the boiler, why not book a boiler service with us by August 31st, 2025, and get 20% off - Dad will love getting a bargain, and he’ll appreciate a warm, safe, stress-free home come winter. Summer is the perfect time to get a boiler serviced too.
For Everyone
Create A Workout To Do Together
If he’s into fitness, why not create a workout you can do together. You can make the exercises that are as non-conventional as you like – think outside the box! If it’s a sunny day, why not create an assault course/circuit in the garden?
Have A Family Video Game Tournament
If your dad loves playing on his video games as much as you, what better way to celebrate Father’s Day than with a family tournament? If you’re not into screens, get the board games out. Just because it’s Father’s Day, it doesn’t mean you should let him win!
Set Up An Outdoor Cinema For The Night
Set up a screening of a movie in the garden. Shine a projector against a blank, white wall, layout blankets/chairs/cushions and throws, and snuggle up to watch your family favourite film together.
Film A “Thank You, Dad” Video
The budding YouTubers and actors/actresses amongst you will enjoy recording short clips saying why dad deserves a break. Combine them for a heartfelt surprise. You could even screen it before your movie in the garden (as per the point above).
Oliver Osmore has been part of Maintracts Services since 2001, following in his father’s footsteps. As Managing Director, he ensures the company runs smoothly, supports customers and engineers, and thrives on solving complex problems others can’t. Highly organised and approachable, Oliver works closely with customers to deliver tailored solutions, drawing on his extensive experience in plumbing, heating, and electrical services to resolve enquiries efficiently.
Since 1974, Maintracts Services has built a reputation for high-quality installation, maintenance, and repairs. Under Oliver’s leadership, the company remains committed to professionalism, safety, and customer satisfaction.