5 Tips To Build Strong Father Daughter Relationship

From the moment little girls are born, fathers play a key role in the psychological development of their daughters. In fact, when fathers are present in their daughters' lives, girls grow up with a healthy sense of who they are. They also are more confident and self-assured and have a clearer understanding of what they want in life.

A father's influence also is apparent in a young girl's dating relationships. As daughters grow up, it is natural for boys to come in and out of their lives; but the one male who will always set the standard for these relationships is her father (or a father figure). For this reason, the father-daughter relationship not only plays an important role as your daughter is growing up but in her future as well.

* Teach Her New Things

It is wonderful when you teach your daughter to ride a bike, throw a softball, to read, or even to do chores. But often the best things you can teach her are the things society might consider "guy things." Skills like checking the oil in a car, putting bait on a fishing hook, building a computer program, using a hammer and nails, or even hitting a golf ball will serve your daughter well.

* Begin the Day She Is Born

To create a positive relationship with your daughter, start on the day she is born. Get involved in her life from the very beginning by taking an active role in caring for your baby girl. The more time you spend with her early on, the easier it will be to continue building the relationship later.

As a result, be sure you are helping change diapers, spending time cuddling, and giving baths from time to time. You also should support her mom in any way you can. In fact, research shows that from infancy girls are developing ideas and drawing conclusions about the men in their lives. Be sure you are the kind of man you want in your daughter's life from day one.

* Be Her Confidante

Many girls love to talk. They also tend to be more vocal than boys growing up. You can build your relationship with your daughter by listening more and allowing her to confide in you. Pay attention to what she says when you are together. Listen to what she is thinking about, dreaming of, and wishing for in her life.

* Plan Fun Time

Every father-daughter relationship should include daddy-daughter dates. These moments together don't have to be anything elaborate. Simply checking out the latest toys at the toy store, going out for ice cream, or attending the library's storytime are great options for daddy-daughter dates.

As she gets older, you can do something active together like playing miniature golf, hiking, biking, or swimming. You also could take your daughter to a play, a baseball game, or even a concert. Building fun memories in a positive environment can make a big difference in your relationship.

* Be Involved

The hallmark of every great father-daughter relationship is a father who is actively interested and involved in his daughter's life. Being involved is about more than asking about her day. Instead, it means finding out what she is interested in or excited about and sharing in it with her.