My favorite scene in the Steve Martin version of the film, Father of the Bride, happens in the driveway. Back from her time in Europe, Annie, played by Kimberly Williams-Paisley, has just told mom and dad that she met a man in Rome and that they plan to get married. Her father is hardly excited about this life changing turn of events and it shows.

Cut to my favorite scene: Annie is sitting on the porch in her black evening dress and heels mad at her dad for his total lack of affirmation and interest in the love of her life. With basketball in hand he ventures an apology and affirms he believes in her and her choices. With The Temptations singing My Girl in the background, she kicks off her heels and dons a pair of basketball shoes as dad and daughter go one on one. Why do I love this scene?

I love that it shows Annie’s elegance and athleticism. Dad your daughter needs the environment and opportunity to explore both.

I love that they talk about their relationship and her relationship with her fiancé. Dad don’t fall into the temptation of extremes - avoiding boy talk on the one end or becoming the “shotgun” dad on the other. The National Center on Fathering asked young women between the ages of 16 – 20 to complete this statement, “I wish I could talk to my dad about ? Their responses could be factored into five categories: Boys, Guidance, Personal Issues, God, and The Dynamics of Our Relationship.

I love that George and Annie have fun together in a Steve Martin kind of way. Dad your little girl may be growing into a young woman but she still needs you to tease, play and roughhouse with her as you did when she was little. Your daughter may misinterpret your pulling away exactly at the same time that she is most concerned about her appearance.

I love that they high five each other throughout their play. Dad your daughter needs your encouragement and affirmation. Too many of our daughters are burdened by the thought that they will never be able to please their dad.

Last but not least, I love that she wins the game!

Dad, when was the last time you went one on one with your daughter?

Follow this link for a short video clip on the importance of father/daughter relationships and this link for my 9NEWS interview on the same topic.