Father’s day is right around the corner. I know your ex might be a walking red flag wrapped in bad cologne and child support arrears.

You don’t have to like him. You don’t have to trust him. But you do have to remember this:

Your kid loves him.

Maybe not every second, maybe not without disappointment—but still, that man is half of who they are. And like it or not, that “trash” you can’t stand? He helped give you this child—and they’re not trash. They’re the best thing that ever happened to you.

Kids Can’t Drive to Walgreens

Here’s the deal: kids aren’t in school right now making cute “#1 Dad” mugs out of macaroni.

They can’t hop in the car and pick out a card or gift. That job falls on you.

And before you roll your eyes and mutter “not my problem,” consider this:

• 99.9% of Parenting Plans give dads Father’s Day.
• This isn’t about rewarding him—it’s about protecting your kid’s heart.
• If your child shows up empty-handed, they’re the one who feels awkward or guilty.

You’re not doing this for him.

You’re doing it for your kid—to teach them empathy, kindness, and the value of honoring family, even when it’s complicated.

Teach the Lesson That Matters

Help your child make a card.

Take two minutes to print a photo, grab a tie, or pick out a silly screwdriver set at Target.

Even a $3 card from Walgreens says, “I see you, and you matter to me.”

And your child? They’ll feel proud walking in with something in hand instead of shame for having nothing.

It’s not about him. It’s about them.