Sports-loving dads make gift-buying easy

If your dad would prefer to spend Father's Day watching -- or playing -- sports, fulfilling his wishes should be an easy task.

With any luck, Dad is a baseball fan, and he'll simply want to be parked in front of the TV all afternoon, watching the game. But to add some father-child bonding, make sure you're there alongside him. Ideally, you'll enjoy the game, too. But if you find it torturous to sit through a baseball game, make sure to supply Dad with the snacks and beverages of his choice, and show at least a little bit of interest in the game now and then.

Better yet, of course, would be to actually attend a game with Dad. You'll never go wrong with a gift of baseball tickets, especially if it's for his favorite team -- and includes good seats.

Or maybe instead of watching sports, the dad in your house would rather get involved in the action. This is probably especially true of younger dads, in which case maybe Mom can help organize a family softball or basketball game. It doesn't have to be anything fancy; perhaps just Dad and Mom versus the kids. Or maybe an aunt and uncle are invited over to play, or some family friends. Whatever direction the game goes, it's a good opportunity to bond while getting in some all-important exercise.

If you're looking for a gift that's easier to wrap, start checking out Dad's sports paraphernalia. Does he collect his favorite team's gear? If so, a vintage hat or T-shirt might bring a grin to his face. But if he's not one of "those guys," try a book about his favorite sport or something fun that integrates sports -- like a sports trivia board game or a book of baseball crossword puzzles.

Is the man of the house on a softball or soccer team? Does he play tennis or golf? Get him the higher-end gear he's been pining for -- or a gift certificate to a sporting goods store.

Whatever sports-related gift you choose, tailoring it toward his favorite sports or teams will show that you've been paying attention.