During these times, when everything seems to have a commercial element to it, it's easy to forget that most of life's true pleasures are basic human needs that predate money and shops. They are the good times, the small gestures, the helping hands and the moments of tenderness that most of us don't do often enough but feel a warm glow inside when we do. While it's true that sometimes we need to spend a little to reach these blissful moments, for example booking a flight to be close to our loved ones or buying the ingredients for that home-made cake, it's not the amount we spend that matters ? it's the end result. Here are a few ideas to make Father's Day a little more meaningful without spending a penny.

Spending time

Father's Day gifts don't need to be wrappable or buyable. They can be as abstract as the moving hands on a clock. It's interesting that we say ?spending? time when we talk about being with someone we care for, because if we were to try and put a value on it, we'd be faced with an impossible calculation. Even solicitors would struggle to come up with a suitable hourly rate. Nevertheless, the time we spend laughing and chatting in each other's company is priceless. And doing it on your own just looks odd.

Lending a hand

We all have those domestic chores that we continually put off, either because they induce a relaxing sensation of boredom or because they are too difficult to tackle alone. But be done they must, and the longer we put them off the worse the problem can become. It could be something as simple as replacing a washer or painting a gutter, but when two people are on the job, it's much more fun ? and it will stop being a niggling little matter playing on the mind. Is there a better time than Father's Day to ask if he'd like a hand with anything?

Show an interest

Have you noticed that when you have a hobby or interest, it's a big thrill to meet someone who wants to find out more? Or maybe there's a story from your past that you love to share with people. If you know what makes your dad tick, why not get a conversation going about it, or ask him to give you a demonstration? You might find yourself up in the loft as he fires up his train set, watching aghast as he reveals his secret yoga or fire eating skills or simply sitting down and watching a DVD together. Whatever you end up doing, you'll be sure to bond and have a memorable time.

Create something

We all have a creative streak hidden within our souls. Or perhaps there's an art you've been refining over the years that could be the basis of fabulous Father's Day gifts. It could be something hands-on like woodwork or origami, or possibly a talent for songwriting, poetry, film-making or painting. Those of us who excel in the kitchen will no doubt be able to conjure something amazing up, be it a five-course meal or a batch of his favourite muffins. In fact, the more unusual and unbelievable your talent, the bigger will be the surprise when you apply it to creating a superb Fathers Day gift that will cost no more than a few raw materials and some of your time. But you can bet that the Father's Day you give him a sample of your wares or talent will be the one he remembers the longest.

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