How to Tell Your Daughter You Love Her

Daughters of all ages need to know you care.

Your relationship with your daughter can define her as she grows up and can make or break her self-confidence even after she becomes an adult. Show your daughter you love her as often as possible. Sometimes words are necessary to remind her that you love her and appreciate her even when you fight or seem tough. Other times a gesture is all you need to tell her what you want her to know your feelings.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Hug her or pat her on the shoulder often. According to Fathers.com, physical touch instills a sense of comfort and security in a child. Daughters especially may need a small gesture to feel loved by their parents. Physical touch can tell your daughter you love her more than words.

2. Celebrate her achievements. No achievement is too minor an occasion to celebrate your daughter's successes. Tell her how proud you are of her when she accomplishes something she has worked toward, such as a good grade on a test, the ability to ride a bike or beginning a new summer job.

3. Lift her spirits during setbacks. Successes are not the only time you tell your daughter you love her. On the contrary, when she feels down, she needs your love and support more than ever. Do not get angry or frustrated when your daughter fails. Take the time to talk to her about the value of persistence and hard work. Remind her that you love her no matter what happens.

4. Give her a card or present for no reason. One way to express that your love is unconditional is to tell your daughter you love her for no particular reason. While you do not want to spoil your child, a simple occasional handmade gift or card expresses your feelings and can bring a smile to her face.

Tips & Warnings

• Personalize your gesture to suit your daughter. Tell her you love her via an action or gift that shows you know her, what she likes and what makes her smile.

• If your relationship with your daughter is strained, do not attempt to force her to open up to you, as this pressure could backfire. A hug or a gift may not be the right action to take. Opt for family counseling if possible.

• Be her parent, not her friend. When you want your daughter to know you love her, you may act like a friend more than a parent. Your daughter still needs guidance and discipline when applicable.

References

• Fathers.com; Your Daughters Need Your Affection; April 2007
• CNN.com: Living Simple; Improving Mother-Daughter Relationships; Sara Reistand-Long, et al.; June 2009