“I Love You, Kiddo.” Three Little Words. One Giant Impact.
This Father’s Day, we want to celebrate not just the men who’ve always known how to say the right thing—but the dads who are learning how to speak their kids’ language of love.
On a recent Celebrate Kids podcast, we heard a powerful story from a young woman in college. Her dad had always shown love through action—he fixed things, showed up to games, and gave big bear hugs. But now? Every phone call ended with something new:
“I love you.”
And that shift, small as it might seem, felt like a mountain moved.
Dads, Your Love Speaks—Even When It’s Quiet
Some dads are doers. Others are talkers. Some dads wrestle with their kids in the yard, while others work long hours so their kids can have what they need. Love comes in many forms. And that’s something to celebrate.
But here’s what’s beautiful: great dads keep growing. They don’t stop at what’s comfortable—they press in to learn new ways to express their care, especially as their kids change and mature.
Saying “I Love You” Isn’t Weak—It’s Brave
For that young woman, her dad’s words weren’t just a sentimental flourish. They were timely. College was overwhelming. Life felt uncertain. And suddenly, those three words became an anchor.
Dads, when you speak love out loud, you remind your children that they’re not alone. You remind them that who they are—right now—is worthy of your love and attention.
Notice. Adapt. Affirm.
Here’s what else we’re celebrating this Father’s Day:
Dads who are watching closely.
Dads who adapt their methods to match their child’s needs.
Dads who try again after missing the mark.
Behavior is communication. A withdrawn teenager. A kid who suddenly starts saying “no” a lot. A change in mood. These aren’t inconveniences—they’re clues. When you ask, “What’s going on?” or “How can I help?” instead of pushing harder, you create space for trust to grow.
Every Smart Needs a Dad
At Celebrate Kids, we teach that kids are smart in eight different ways. Want to show your love in a way that really connects this Father’s Day? Try speaking to your child’s smart:
Word-Smart: Write a note. Tell a story. Speak your pride out loud.
Logic-Smart: Talk through a problem. Ask what they’re learning and why it matters.
Picture-Smart: Sketch something together. Frame a favorite memory.
Music-Smart: Share a song that reminds you of them—or better yet, make one up.
Body-Smart: Toss a football. Build a fort. Give a high-five or a big hug.
Nature-Smart: Go for a hike. Plant something together. Watch the stars.
People-Smart: Talk over a meal. Make eye contact. Ask good questions.
Self-Smart: Give them space. Honor their thoughts. Sit quietly nearby and just be present.
This Father’s Day, Try This:
Say “I love you.” Even if it’s awkward. Even if you’ve never said it before.
Ask your child what makes them feel appreciated.
Celebrate your own growth. Loving your kids better over time is one of your greatest legacies.
Dads, you’re doing more than raising kids—you’re building identities. You’re modeling strength through service, courage through kindness, and love through every action and word.
Today, we honor your effort, your growth, and your heart.
Happy Father’s Day. Keep communicating. Keep connecting. Keep celebrating the child God gave you—and the father He’s shaping you to be.