Father’s Day Shopping Tips: Gift Ideas for Every Dad

Sonora Dodd of Spokane, Washington came up with the idea for a day to celebrate her father, William Smart, in 1909, according to the U.S.. Census Bureau. Apparently, she thought of it after hearing a Mother’s Day sermon. Her young widowed father was also a civil war veteran and a local farmer. After his wife’s death, he raised all six of his children on the farm by himself.

The nation’s first Father’s Day was held on June 17, 1910, the same month as Sonora Dodd’s father’s birthday. The mayor of Spokane announced the official first Father’s Day celebration.

In 1966, President Johnson established Father’s Day on the third Sunday in June. In 1972, Richard Nixon signed a law that made that date official. Today, Father’s Day is celebrated as a special day for fathers, and part of that involves giving gifts. Before you buy your dad another necktie, however, consider giving him something he’ll really enjoy. Why not upgrade his technology with one of these four gift ideas?

Wireless TV Headphones

These comfortable wireless television headphones have clear reception as far away as 19 feet, thanks to the advanced infrared technology. It comes with an infrared transmitter that connects the TV, DVD or CD player – and even to a VCR. The headphones need two AAA batteries. The cushioning on the inside makes these very comfortable against the ears. Dad will be able to watch sports events in peace, and the family won’t complain about the noise anymore. Purchase them for $60 from Brookstone.

Hot New Smartphone

If you’re thinking about giving dad a new smartphone, the BlackBerry Z10 is a great choice. This sleek device has a 4.2-inch touch screen and other powerful features like an ultra-fast dual-core processor, a removable battery, a MicroSD memory card and a USB 2.0 port. The battery will run for 10 hours worth of talk time on the 3G network, but the phone is also equipped for the new 4G LTE network.

The BlackBerry Z10 is available from most major retailers and wireless service providers. Phone prices start at $99, with a two-year contract. Prices go up from there, depending on the specifications of the phone you choose to purchase.

An Infrared Cooking Thermometer

If dad is the cook in your house, give him an infrared thermometer like the HDE Temperature Gun for the reasonable price of $22 at Amazon.com. This temperature gun uses a laser to get the most accurate reading. By pointing the thermometer gun at anything that is cooking, Dad will be able to check the temperature cleanly and easily. It is especially convenient when heating oil for frying or checking the temperature of your grill.

Waterproof MP3 Player

If dad’s favorite workout is swimming laps, make those morning swims more enjoyable for him with this waterproof MP3 player for $145. The device transmits sound through bone conduction. To do so, it rests on the jaw bone and is secured by a clip that attaches to the goggles strap. It contains 2 GB of memory and the ability to store over 500 songs, the equivalent of 32 hours of music. It also comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for over 8 hours on a single charge. It also has a built in USB plug. It is compatible with both MP3 and WMA formats.

About the Author:

Scott Parson is a musician, painter and freelance writer who lives in Baltimore.

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