As we step into June, we embrace a month filled with sunshine, end-of-school celebrations, and the heartfelt observance of Father’s Day. It’s a special time when we pause to recognize the vital role fathers play in shaping the lives of their children – with love, patience, and strength. In the pages of this month’s issue, you’ll find tributes to dads of all kinds, advice for strengthening father-child bonds, and stories that highlight the beauty of fatherhood.

But we also know that not every family’s story includes a father in the picture. For some children, Father’s Day can be confusing, even painful – especially when a dad is absent due to loss, separation, or other life circumstances. So, what do you do when your child doesn’t have a dad to celebrate?

You help them celebrate love in all its forms.

At City Parent, we believe family is about presence, not just titles. A father figure might be a grandfather, uncle, stepfather, older sibling, mentor, coach – or even a mom who’s doing it all. These individuals may not always wear the label of “Dad,” but they show up in ways that matter deeply. And that’s worth honouring.

This Father’s Day, we encourage you to broaden the definition of what it means to celebrate. Create a ritual with your child that uplifts the people who support them. Write a thank-you note, take a special outing, or simply talk about the qualities that make someone a role model. Let this be a day about gratitude – for love given, time shared, and lessons taught.

If you are a single-parent household, blended family, LGBTQ+ parents, and everything in between. Remember every child deserves to feel celebrated and supported, and every caregiver who gives from the heart deserves recognition.

Here’s to the fathers, the father figures, and the everyday heroes who show up with love.