Dads and Daughters

Steven Curtis Chapman's hit song, Cinderella, portrays the pondering of a father watching his little girl grow up. She transforms from playing princess in her nursery to a young bride in his imagination and we can all appreciate the poignancy of this moment for an adoring Daddy.

Dads and daughters have always had a special kind of bond. Family researchers tell us that a father can make a huge difference in their daugther's life. In fact, Dr. Kevin Leman, psychologist and author of the book What A Difference Daddy Makes, says that Dads have much more impact on a daughter than Mom does! More dads are beginning to understand the importance of their influence on their daughters. And they are spending more time building a quality relationship with them.

Here are some ideas to help you get and stay really connected with your daughter. How about, coaching her athletic team? Get to know her  and her  friends by having fun doing a sport together- like golf or tennis. Teach her to fish. Fishing provides an outdoor setting, quiet time and a fun activity. And then there's the very, very important Dad-Daughter Date. Make it a special time for just you and her. Go to a favorite restaurant and practice your best manners. Talk about what her interests are, who her friends are, what her favorite movies are -- just get to know this little girl that adores you! Make this Daddy-Daughter time a regular routine part of your relationship with her. You are preparing her to be treated well by that guy that will one day --unfortunately for you, Dad -- take your place.  

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