As a parent, it can be a challenge to connect with your teenage daughter, especially when they often seem more interested in their own world. I’ve experienced this firsthand. I once playfully knocked on my daughter’s door, reminding her that I was her mom. With a smile, she blew me a kiss and asked me to close the door behind me. Ouch! I remember being a teenager and wanting space from my own mother. Although I believe I’m a bit cooler than my mom was, I still crave that connection with my daughter.
A couple of summers ago, I decided to initiate some special mother-daughter outings. Up until that point, I had always included both my children in activities, but as my son entered high school, he was no longer interested in our family outings. There’s something profoundly rewarding about spending dedicated one-on-one time with your kids; it allows for focused attention and minimizes the need for compromises when selecting activities. Here are eight unique mother-daughter dates that can encourage your teen to step out of her room this summer, foster a deeper connection, and create lasting memories.
1. Fantasy Prom Dress Shopping
Visit a department store and pick out a selection of prom or special occasion dresses from the junior section. Capture photos of your daughter trying on each gown, regardless of how they look. This tradition started when she was young and has become a fun summer ritual.
2. Binge-Watching a Series
Utilize streaming platforms to enjoy a cozy afternoon together watching your favorite series. This can spark conversations about friendships, romantic relationships, and various life topics. Recommended shows for teens include Gilmore Girls, Parenthood, and The Wonder Years.
3. Shared Reading Experience
Two summers ago, we tackled Wonder by R.J. Palacio, and last summer it was Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume. If reading aloud isn’t appealing, consider using the OverDrive app to access free audiobooks from your local library. We’ve enjoyed listening to titles like The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place series by Maryrose Wood during family road trips.
4. Podcast Listening Sessions
Choose age-appropriate podcasts to listen to together. While my daughter is slightly older and enjoys Gilmore Guys, she also likes This American Life and TED Radio Hour. Be sure to preview episodes to ensure content is suitable for her age.
5. Matching Manicures and Pedicures
Let your daughter choose the nail polish color for both of you. While she may prefer bold shades, I usually lean toward softer hues. This small gesture shows her that I value her taste and trust her choices.
6. Cooking Together
Allow your daughter to select an intriguing recipe from a cookbook or the internet. Together, gather the ingredients and prepare the meal, with the only stipulation being that it must be something she’ll enjoy (often a pizza variation!).
7. Photographing Her in My Wedding Dress
When she was nine, I had her pose in my wedding gown for photos. These images are among my most cherished keepsakes.
8. Starting a Mother-Daughter Journal
Co-authored by Meredith and Sophie Jacobs, Just Between Us: A No-Stress, No-Rules Journal for Girls and Their Moms features prompts for sharing thoughts and feelings. This journal has become a valuable tool for understanding each other better.
Ultimately, I hope my daughter looks back on our summers together and remembers me as an engaged and fun mom. I aspire for her to think of me fondly as she transitions into adulthood, creating a relationship grounded in trust and connection.
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Summary
Creating meaningful experiences with your teenage daughter through fun activities can greatly enhance your relationship. Whether it’s shopping for dresses, binge-watching shows, or cooking together, these shared moments foster connection and understanding.