Father's Day Medal
A gold medal awarded by a preschooler is more meaningful than any trophy purchased in a store, because the giver chose it and the categories are completely sincere. "World's Best Silly Voice Dad" is a category that only one person can win. Children design the medal, decide on the category, and present it with a formal ceremony that includes placing the ribbon over the recipient's head.
What You'll Need
- Cardstock or cardboard — for the medal circle
- Gold paint or gold paper — to coat the medal
- Markers — for writing and decorating
- Ribbon — about 24 inches in blue or red
- Hole punch
- Optional: gold glitter glue — for extra ceremony
- Optional: gold foil sticker stars
How to Do It
Step 1: Cut the medal. Cut a circle about 3–4 inches across from cardboard. This is the most important structural element — cardboard is heavier and more medal-like than cardstock.
Step 2: Paint gold. Cover the front with gold paint or glue on gold paper. Let dry.
Step 3: Choose the category. Ask children: "What is Dad the very best at in the whole world?" Write down the first answer — it is always the most sincere.
Step 4: Write the inscription. Write "#1 Dad" or "World's Best [category]" in the center of the medal with a marker. Draw stars or laurel branches around the edge.
Step 5: Add glitter details. A border of gold glitter glue around the edge adds genuine medal splendor.
Step 6: Attach the ribbon. Punch a hole at the top of the medal and thread the ribbon through, tying it to hang at a comfortable neck length for the recipient.
Step 7: Hold the ceremony. Stand the recipient up, say their name and accomplishment aloud, and lower the medal over their head. Applause is mandatory.
Skills Your Child Will Develop
Symbolic gift design — A medal is a symbol of recognition; creating one teaches children that objects can represent honor.
Identifying others' strengths — Choosing what someone is best at requires careful observation of another person.
Ceremony and ritual — Formal presentations teach children that some moments deserve deliberate marking.
Tips & Variations
- Make a whole set of medals — "World's Best Bedtime Stories," "World's Best Sandwich-Maker," "World's Best High Fiver."
- Add a real coin glued to the center for a heavier, more official feel.
- Laminate the medal for durability.
My Two Cents
The category the child chooses without adult prompting is always the most true and the most treasured. Do not suggest categories or redirect the first answer — the honest, unfiltered observation of a four-year-old is the whole gift.
