Fathers raising confident daughters are automatically challenged to overcome a lot of preconceived notions and expectations. While some parents may believe that boys and girls should be raised differently, others think that whatever they teach their sons may also be taught to their daughters.
Kimberly Wolf, a Harvard-trained parenting coach, said in her piece on CNBC that she has met with many fathers who feel out of their element when it comes to raising girls. However, she pointed out that every moment a father shares with his daughter, no matter how short, can bear positive benefits to her whole being.
The expert offered some of these tips to fathers who want to raise confident daughters:
1. Be present and at the moment.
The point of staying close to your daughter, even if you just plan to read a book together, is to be present and to let her know that you can be "available to talk," according to Wolf. The expert suggested that fathers and daughters create ways to connect by enjoying hobbies together, such as reading a book, watching a movie, or going to dinners, just the two of them.
For dads who live in separate homes from their daughters, video calls these days are very accessible. You can even plan to play an online game together as it can set the phase for conversations. According to Wolf, the best conversations actually happen around these moments when dad and daughter are hanging out. She will remember these moments when she becomes an adult.
Wolf also suggested putting the phone away when you're with your daughter. Your focus should be on her 100 percent, without any distractions.
2. Don't shun uncomfortable topics.
Wolf also said that fathers should discuss even the uncomfortable topics with their daughters, and it's the same advice by the Pittsburgh Parent, who said dads should tackle the awkward topics with their girls. It will set expectations even if dads don't always have the answers. Your daughter will know that she can come and talk to you about anything because you don't shun the topic and do not freak out about it when they ask.
The expert added that a parent's point of view on a sensitive topic would allow her to prepare for other "high-stakes conversations" like adult relationships or business issues later on. She will be going to dad for advice on these because she has placed her trust in you as her confidant, who treats her opinions with respect.
3. Be a positive role model.
According to All Pro Dad, many young girls today do not have a positive male role model when fathers should be the first man they need to get to know in the closest way. If their dad is a positive role model, it sets the standard for the people they choose to be in a relationship with.
Along the same lines, Wolf advised dads to notice the smallest things in their daughters and then show appreciation. The dads will establish their daughter's individuality by acknowledging these little things.
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