Father's Day: Alex Jay's fondest daddy-daughter moments

It is said that a father is his daughter’s first love and no other love in this world is like the love a father has for his little girl.

For Alex Jay, being a dad is one of the things he cherishes the most and nothing makes him happier than his daughter  Maxine.

We chatted to him about the special relationship he has with his daughter.

What do you love most about being a dad?

The idea that someone will be around to take care of me in my 80s! LOL. Nah, I love the closeness that only one's children can provide.

What's your fondest daddy-daughter moment?

I have so many cherished memories. Meeting her for the first time in the birthing room, her first day at school, ballet classes, eisteddfods, sleep-overs and parties.

The amazing portrait of me that my daughter did while in primary school still hangs right outside my bedroom. It makes me smile every day.

She was always a princess, never a prima donna. Maxine always made me happy.

Was your daughter's first-word mama or dada? What was your reaction?

Maxine’s first word was “tap.” Yes, that thing in the bathroom. And no, Ma & Pa were not upset. We loved it. (By contrast, our friend’s son’s first words were “forget about it” at 10 months.

What is the biggest lesson you think parents should teach their children?

You will fall but you will get back up. Have confidence in yourself and your abilities and remember to always treat everyone as equals.

Share five fun and quirky things only dads with daughters will understand

1. A helpless little baby girl will make you sharpen up as a dad very, very quickly.

2. I had to learn how to do pony-tails and plaits very early on.

3. My sense of fashion is rubbish (according to the girls).

4. Dad jokes are a natural, unavoidable, organic development.

5. Your protector gene will kick in, turning even the most dedicated pacifistic paters into potential raging bulls.

ALSO READ: Make your father feel special this Father’s Day