How can we invest in our daughters in the most effective way? That’s what this section of fathers.com is all about.
We have an in-house expert on the topic, Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield, who has years of experience working with young women and their dads. Look below for more information about Michelle as well as some recommended articles. Further below is our archive of content for dads of daughters, where you can take a deeper dive.
For now, a few nuggets to challenge you:
There may be many things you want to tell your daughter, but you have to earn the right to speak by listening first. She wants to be heard, and if all her dad does is lecture, she’ll grow frustrated and probably seek out other people who will listen and offer their counsel—and there’s no way of knowing what they’ll tell her.
Also, don’t underestimate your influence as a role model. As a girl tries to figure out what men are like, the first one she watches is her daddy. You can be one very significant example of a man who is consistent, trustworthy, and sensitive to feelings, who places his family at a high priority, who keeps promises, and who invests in the lives of those around him.
And finally, don’t hesitate to show her affection. If you don’t, she may think you don’t care or that something’s wrong with her. Your daughter needs to know that you cherish her as a person and you admire her as a lovely young woman. Make it clear that, although you find her beautiful, she is more attractive because she is a unique, gifted and worthwhile person.
For more, here are some featured articles to help you with your daughter. Be sure to see the entire collection below as well.
How to Bond with Your Daughter
How to Raise a World-Changing Daughter by Michelle Watson
Daddy-Daughter Date Ideas for Committed Dads by Jay Payleitner
Daughters and Mirrors – audio clip from Michelle Watson
Dr. Michelle Watson Canfield
Father/Daughter
Recent For Dads of Daughters Articles
Video: Stay Connected to Your Daughter
Rick Wertz and his daughter Amanda describe some simple but powerful ways dads and daughters can stay connected.
How to Raise a World-Changing Daughter
Dad, if you want to raise a confident daughter who believes in herself and steps forward to change the world around her for good, be assured that you are part of that equation and your input really does matter.
Runaway: A Moving Video of a Father’s Love
A more modern version of the “Prodigal Son” that depicts the depth of a father’s love, featuring the song “Runaway” by Jess Ray.
Halftime Shows & Helping Our Children Define the Line
As fathers, we should be aware of what our children (and grandchildren) are seeing and hearing in the media and elsewhere, and we can view these events as opportunities for thoughtful discussions with them.
Valentine’s Day Tips for Dads of Daughters – and Sons
Your Valentine’s Day shopping and planning for your wife might be well under way—and that’s good! Some may view this...
5 Ways to Connect With Your Daughter
Setting time aside for moments to connect with your daughter will shape the way she will expect to be treated when she is older.
5 Things to Teach Your Daughter
Dad, you’re an influential person in your daughter’s life. Make sure you teach her the most important things that she...
5 Tips for Talking to Your Daughter About Sex
Talking with your daughter about sex may seem like mom’s job, but dads play an important role in the conversation too.
5 Tips for Dads With Daughters
Raising daughters is an adventure! Maintaining focus on doing the right things makes raising strong and healthy...
7 Things Every Daughter Needs to Hear From Her Dad
“I will always be here for you” and 6 more statements every dad should be telling his daughter regularly.