Hi Deanna - how is the cockatiel fitting into the family now?
Birds are individuals and some birds do like being held - but most would must rather perch on a finger or shoulder.
How old is your daughter? Is she going to be able to accept this pet if he doesn't turn out to be exactly what she wanted.
Clicker training may help shape the bird's behaviour a little and is great for trick training, which might help your daughter accept that he doesn't want to be held.
Good luck and I hope it works out for your daughter and her pet.
