6 dad/daughter Christmas dates

There's nothing like the bond between father and daughter. Daughters not only learn how men should treat women in their relationship with their fathers, but it also dictates who they marry and how they relate to their future spouse. The presence of the father in a child's life, especially that of a daughter, can make or break a child's future. So guys, even if you find it hard to bond with your girls because you don't have as much in common, you should do what you can to bond with your girls.

There's no better time for a father to bond with his child than at Christmas. Children are often absent from school and have a lot of free time. Fathers who spend quality time with their daughters create a bond that can never be broken.

In this economy, however, having father-daughter dates can be tough on a budget. But with a little ingenuity, fathers and daughters can have a great time and not spend too much money doing it.

Here are six dad-daughter Christmas dates to try this year:

1. Ice skating

One ​​of the best gifts you can give your daughter this Christmas is the gift of experience. By doing something that requires movement, like skating (or even dancing), you not only focus on each other, but you also relive memories from your childhood. You can have a magical experience by heading to Rockefeller Center or taking a short hike to your local frozen pond. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it's a memory she'll never forget. (Consider packing a thermos of hot chocolate for your outdoor adventures!)

If it's your first time skating, or if she's not so confident on the ice, take the time to show initiative and be her strength. Help her by allowing her to lean on you when she feels unsteady on her skates and hold her hand. Even if your child is older, there's nothing wrong with holding their hand. The beauty of a gentle touch communicates the love you share with each other, even if your relationship has been strained lately.

2. Movie night

Although movie nights are all about a screen, they can still foster quality time between you and your child. It can cost as much as going to the movies and seeing the latest hit or renting a few on-demand Christmas movies, popping some popcorn and laughing at your favorite movies. Allow her to choose the movies so she can be more engaged. Even if movies aren't your thing, the memories you make will quickly become your favorites as you reflect on the lengths you've gone to to become more interested in your daughter.

3. Bake Christmas cookies

Baking Christmas cookies is a great bonding experience between you and your daughter. If you're on a tight food budget, be sure to simplify your Christmas cookie list and buy just a few simple ingredients. Simple sugar cookies without decorative icing can be just as tasty as more complicated recipes like peanut butter cookies with chocolate kisses on top or Snickerdoodles. Take the time to encourage her when the cookies come out askew or too burnt. Words of encouragement will go a long way in the relationship with your daughter.

Not only can you have a great time baking cookies together, but you can also bless your neighborhood or community by purchasing small cookie tins, placing the baked cookies in the tins, and distributing them to neighbors. It's a great way to show Christian character during the holidays. It will also show him that it is indeed better to give than to receive.

4. Christmas Spa Day

Many girls like to get their nails done or relax with a massage or a haircut. Opt to go with your daughter and get a haircut or pedicure while she gets a Christmas manicure. Although it may go against some of your preconceived notions of what a man is, you can appreciate it and your daughter will certainly cherish this memory. You can both go to your favorite hair salon or the one that has back-to-back appointments. You can also go to the mall and treat yourself to a chair massage. Whatever you choose, open your mind to having fun and spending time with your daughter. Don't worry about what people think; focus instead on having a good time with your daughter.

5. Shop till you drop

Whether your daughter loves shopping or not, she'll probably want to buy gifts for family members this Christmas. You can take her to the mall and let her shop until she drops. Or you can make it a Christmas thrift store. Give him an allowance and tell him to use his creativity to buy gifts from thrift stores for his family members. Although the gift may be inexpensive, it will encourage her to use her creativity and stick to her budget while buying thoughtful gifts for each member. This will teach him not only that it's the thought that counts, but also that Christmas doesn't count...