10 Things to Teach Your Daughter

So Maxim (Yes, that Maxim.  And no, we're not going to link to it.) published a list of ten things every father should teach his son. Not surprisingly, they didn't quite get it right.

So, what important things do you need to teach your kids? Read on for our top ten list of things to teach your daughter.

1. Work hard, even when no one is watching. The definition of integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
   
   
2. Honesty actually is the best policy. Teach your daughter the value of honesty from an early age.
   
   
3. Modesty isn't an old-fashioned ideal. You can be modest and still be trendy. Emphasize that there is nothing wrong with "leaving something to the imagination."
   
   
4. Protect your heart. Encourage your daughter to proceed cautiously in dating relationships.
   
   
5. Serve your community. So often, the decisions we make affect so many other people. Talk to your daughter about how her decisions and actions affect others, and serve with her. Find a local shelter or soup kitchen, give to a clothing drive - or let her pick how she wants to serve. It is never to early to start volunteering together.
   
   
6. Focus on the beauty on the inside. Our culture puts so much focus on outer beauty and it is difficult for girls to develop positive body images. Affirm your daughter's beauty - inside and out - and encourage her to focus on true beauty: inner beauty.
   
   
7. Don't be afraid to take risks. Encourage your daughter to pursue her dreams and take (reasonable) risks to advance her learning, her career, and provide enriching learning experiences.
   
   
8. Gossip is dangerous. Girls are known to gossip. Deal with this habit early on and talk to your daughter about how destructive gossip can be. And, make sure you and mom aren't gossipping, either.
   
   
9. Don't be afraid to walk into a room alone. This is all about inspiring confidence in your daughter. Teach her to have a firm handshake, look people in the eye when she talks to them, and to be able to be confident even if she's not surrounded by her three giggling best friends.
   
   
10. Don't take your blessings for granted. Remind your daughter how fortunate she is. It's easy to lose sight of our blessings, and it is a good reminder for all of us.