Establishing effective communication between father and daughter will help you build a strong and healthy relationship. As with any important relationship, the father-daughter bond requires careful and continuous attention. This becomes more crucial at a time when daughters begin to develop as young women. Communicating well requires patience, practice and effort.
Corresponding
Your daughter will reach a certain point in life when she desires her independence. Communication obstacles will continue to grow and you must learn to work with or around them. Communicating regularly---daily, weekly or biweekly---will provide a reliable routine for the relationship. Communication requires an effort from both sides and should not always be initiated by the same person. Whether by e-mail, phone or in person, on a regular basis take turns discussing personal events or sharing experiences with each other. Today's technology offers convenience in communication. Something as quick and easy as sending a short text message will not go unnoticed. Communication is essential for every father-daughter relationship in maintaining awareness and involvement in each other's life.
Good Listening
Studies from the University of Delaware define "active listening" as "a way of listening to others to let them know you are working to understand the message they are sending." This involves attentive body language such as eye contact and nodding your head to let the person know you are listening, reducing distractions that will steal your focus and noticing the expression of feelings the person is trying to convey. Dads, be careful about offering advice when it is not asked for. Instead, make sure your daughter knows you understand her and that she is confident in delivering her meaning clearly to you. Daughters, when you want advice don't be afraid to ask for it. Sometimes dads really do know best.
Openness
Showing empathy will create a safe setting for the expression of feelings. Be affectionate. All of us have a desire to feel loved, and it doesn't hurt to say the words out loud. If you struggle with speaking about your feelings, offer warmth and comfort with a hug. Try to focus on being open. Being honest about how you feel will enhance the level of comfort in your relationship and it will build trust--the basic building block for any successful relationship. Offer approval when appropriate. Your daughter wants to make you feel proud. Learn to accept one another. Understand there will always be disagreements and when conflict does arise, communicating will help you deal with it.
Time Together
As girls hit their mid teens to early 20s, they learn the true meaning of time management. But just because her schedule is getting busier does not mean a girl can't make time for her dad. Find activities you both enjoy and take the opportunity to interact---whether it's going to a sports event or enjoying some activity together, seeing a show or movie or just spending some down time together. Making the effort is the important part. She'll appreciate the attention, and father-daughter bonding helps to boost her self-esteem. Spending quality time together will give you opportunities to get to know one another and this interaction will strengthen your relationship.
Supportiveness
Dads, be your daughter's number one fan. Keep informed of her interests and abilities, and extend your support. Show up to her basketball game, wish her luck before a big exam. A little cheering can go a long way. Daughters: dads need encouragement, too. Expressing an interest in your Dad's latest hobby or challenge at work will show him how much you care and want to be involved in his life.
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