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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."
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.