Fatherhood Guide: Fathers and Daughters

Father to Daughter

• Tell her that she is capable and can achieve her goals.
• Listen to her. Encourage her to tell  you about her interests, goals, and dreams.
• Model positive masculinity; make your family a high priority, keep your promises, and show concern for others.
• Model healthy and respectful behavior toward women.
• Let your daughter know that you accept and love her for who she is.
• Ask her what she enjoys doing with you and then set up time to do that activity.
• Show her approval and affection. If you don’t she may think that you don’t care or that something is wrong with her.
• Take her to work. Talk to her about her aspirations and career interests.

Children's Books About Dads

• Won't Papa Be Surprised!, by Terri Cohlene, contains the quintessential view of a young girl's relationship with her father.
• The Very Best Daddy of All, by Marion Dane Bauer, is especially perfect for the younger offspring to give to their dad.
• The 10 Best Things About My Dad, by Christine Loomis, is a small inexpensive book that is packed with 10 of the many things that kids really enjoy experiencing with their fathers.
• Love Me Tender is an illustrated book based upon Elvis Presley's famous song. What makes this book so wonderful are the gorgeous illustrations by Tom Browning.
• Whistling, by Elizabeth Partridge, is a story about a father teaching his young son to whistle.
• Give her the River - A Father's Wish for his Daughter, by Michael Dennis Browne. The love and strong relationship between father and daughter come through with all that
  he wishes for his daughter.