As
the oldest of 7 children, I often felt not only like the official babysitter
for the family, but also a need for more attention from my parents sometimes.
Time I got to spend one-on-one with my parents became special when we started
going on daddy-daughter dates! My dad would find special opportunities every
once in a while to take just me, or me and my little sister to go do something
together. From the time I was young until today, I cherish the special moments
I get to spend with my parents. When I was younger, I loved going with
my daddy to stop by his office. He would introduce me to his co-workers and his
boss, and I would feel so special! Even though we didn’t play together in the
office, I had fun watching my dad work, playing with office supplies, and
spinning in his office chair. Then on the way home, we would have time to talk
about how I was doing or things I needed help understanding.
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| My Dad and I |
Daddy-daughter dates are great on any budget! Going to my dad’s office
was free. Making a fort, jumping in a leaf pile, coloring pictures, or blowing
bubbles are also free and age appropriate. These kind of one-on-one
experiences are when you can set an example for your child, at any age,
of how you would like others to treat them. If your daughter grows up feeling
cherished and respected by her father, she will search for these qualities in
her friendships and in the people she will date or marry.
The
same things can happen with your son, and you will also have the opportunity to
discuss how to give men and women proper respect.
No
matter the number of siblings your child has, taking time to periodically get
away from the normal routine will help solidify your relationship with your
child as they grow and develop. Remember that this is a great way to have
fun and set a good example of appropriate social behavior.
What are some fun daddy-daughter dates your family has done?
Photo
Here
are some tips about Daddy-Daughter/ Mother-Son dates:
Mother-Son and Daddy-Daughter Dates
Mother-Son and Daddy-Daughter Dates
Here
is a whole blog devoted to daddy-daughter date ideas! All the bloggers are
experienced dads:Daddy Daughter Date Blog
Yes, you're absolutely right. It's so foundational and critical for us to take time out for our kids as you are saying, especially in this day and age. We've got to make every stride we can to nurture our relationships with our kids. We've been reading a great new, actually renewed, book. Great for all dads of daughters. We're loving it, so I have to share... It's called “She Calls Me Daddy: 7 Things You Need to Know About Building a Complete Daughter,” by Robert Wolgemuth. Originally released in the 90s, it was a best seller. His girls are grown up and give their own input along with their husbands who are daddies to girls. I understand 40% of the book is new material. It's so unique in this way. Robert puts the anxieties of Daddy raising his girl(s) to rest, guiding you through challenges and good times – protecting, conversation, affection, discipline, laughter, faith, conduct. So great for helping daddies learn to lead, love and cherish. I highly recommend it! http://www.tyndale.com/She-Calls-Me-Daddy/9781589977853#.U7jH414Q7wI
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