Dads are increasingly playing crucial roles in parenting their daughters, moving away from the traditional notion that parenting is primarily a mother’s job. Susan Woodworth, from Walk and Talk Psychology, explained, “I have noticed a shift around fathering. Rather than seeing parenting as fundamentally the work of mum, I love seeing dads step up and play an important role in their daughter’s life.”
Fathers often underestimate the profound impact they have on their daughters’ lives. By serving as positive role models and staying actively involved, fathers can provide lasting benefits that extend through their daughters’ teenage years and into adulthood. This involvement can shield daughters from negative cultural and media influences, boost their self-confidence, and help them choose partners who treat them with respect and care.
Busting Myths About Fathering
Myth #1: Women are naturally better caregivers for children than men.
Busted: The time spent with your child attunes you to their needs, not your gender. Both men and women can develop caregiving skills at the same rate when given the opportunity.
Myth #2: Fathers should be more like mothers.
Busted: Fathers should embrace their own unique perspective. Men and women offer different but equally valuable contributions to parenting.
Embracing Differences Across the Gender Divide
Listen
Dads excel at fixing things, but they don’t need to solve their daughters’ problems. Holding a safe, non-judgmental space for daughters is incredibly important. Girls need to know they can turn to either parent anytime in life when challenges arise. Sometimes, they just need someone to listen. When dads understand the importance of listening, they can make time to encourage their daughters to feel heard. Don’t be intimidated by uncomfortable topics. Showing up, sharing your viewpoints, and listening helps your daughter feel loved, seen, and supported.
Make time to connect
Making time to connect shows your love for your daughter. Activities like stargazing, gardening, camping, reading, fixing cars, or watching movies together create lasting memories. These one-on-one “dad dates” fill her memory bank with moments she can cherish for life. Show your daughter that you value her and the time you spend together.
The trouble with teasing
Teasing, banter, and making fun of each other is common in male interactions and are often intended to build connections. However, when dads tease their daughters, it can have the opposite effect. Teasing can make daughters feel unsafe and judged, triggering shame. Respect your daughter’s boundaries by stopping when she says stop, whether verbally or through body language.
Understanding the unique dynamics of fathering daughters enables us to create warm, loving relationships. The more we embrace these differences, the better we can support our daughters’ growth and well-being.
Listen to Susan’s full conversation with Bec and Norm below!