Dads and Daughters

Making the most of this special relationship

By Jill Eggleton Brett

There's something special about the relationship between a father and his daughter. Dad is her first relationship with a man. He is one of her first teachers, first friends and first role models. None of these titles should be taken lightly, because "Dad" has the opportunity to shape a wonderful woman.

Start building a nurturing relationship with your daughter as soon as possible. At 6 months old, she may not understand the meaning of life, but she surely knows who her daddy is.

She'll never be too young or too old for you to start being the dad you want to be. "The father's role in a daughter's life is invaluable in molding her future male-female relationships," says Elizabeth Lea, M.S.W., a therapist in San Francisco, Calif. "Whether they are aware of it or not, females tend to pattern such relationships after the model set by their fathers. Dad is the prime example in a girl's life of how she should be treated by males."

Of course babies love cuddles, but so does a young lady or woman of any age. Physical touch is part of every relationship -- whether friends, relatives or coworkers. Best friends hug, grandmas kiss their grandsons on the forehead and coworkers pat each other on the back. And so it is with fathers and daughters.

Generously deliver those cuddles and kisses to your daughter. They are affirming, warm, full of love and assurance. Appropriate physical intimacy with Dad helps girls build trust, and a positive self-image, Lea says.

Want to see more?

• How to Behave So Your Children Will, Too
• Father Time: Striking a Balance Between Work and Home
• Girl Power: Raising Smart, Bold Girls
• The Dads Place Discussion Board