How To Raise Little Girls To Become Strong And Capable Women

Once upon a time, the world liked women weak and meek. Preferably pretty and uneducated. Honey, don’t argue, don’t disagree, don’t have your own opinions. Just cook his meals, clean his house, raise his babies.

Walked down the aisle on daddy’s arm so he can hand you off to a husband like the property you were. And if you think different, google coverture in America. A legal practice that meant women had no legal entity.

Preacher says “and the two shall become one.” And they did. Became him. Became Mrs. John Smith as if her own name didn’t matter any more.

There are people who still want that for girls. See girls as inferior. Powerful patriarchal men, sure, but women, too. Holding up those beliefs. But sometimes we raise girls to feel inferior and it’s not even on purpose.

Sometimes, we pass down thoughts and ideas same way we pass down big brown eyes, wide feet, auburn hair. Ideas leaking from past generations to the present, we don’t even think about them.

Makes me think we mamas need to compare notes. Talk about how to raise strong girls. There are ten things I think every little girl should be taught. But maybe buckle up, I might rattle some old bones.

Raising little girls to become strong and capable women involves a combination of fostering self-esteem, providing diverse opportunities, modeling positive behavior, and creating a supportive environment. Here are 10 key strategies:

1. Encourage Self-Confidence

Positive Reinforcement: Praise efforts rather than just outcomes to build a growth mindset.

Encourage Independence: Allow her to make choices and decisions, fostering a sense of autonomy and confidence.

2. Provide Diverse Opportunities

Expose to Various Activities: Encourage participation in sports, arts, science, and other areas to discover and develop her interests and talents.

Promote STEM Education: Support her in exploring subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math to broaden her future career opportunities.

3. Model Positive Behavior

Be a Role Model: Demonstrate confidence, resilience, and a positive attitude in your own life.

Show Healthy Relationships: Model respectful and healthy relationships to teach her about mutual respect and support.

4. Teach Emotional Intelligence

Encourage Emotional Expression: Teach her that it’s okay to express her feelings and emotions.

Develop Empathy: Help her understand and empathize with others, fostering strong interpersonal skills.

5. Promote Critical Thinking

Encourage Questions: Foster curiosity by encouraging her to ask questions and think critically about the world around her.

Teach Problem-Solving Skills: Give her opportunities to solve problems on her own or with guidance, building her analytical and decision-making skills.

6. Support Her Voice

Encourage Her to Speak Up: Teach her that her opinions and ideas matter. Encourage her to express herself confidently in various settings.

Teach Assertiveness: Help her understand the difference between assertiveness and aggressiveness, and how to stand up for herself and others in a respectful manner.

7. Build Resilience

Teach Coping Skills: Help her learn how to cope with setbacks and failures by viewing them as learning experiences.

Encourage Perseverance: Reinforce the importance of persistence and hard work in achieving goals.

8. Create a Supportive Environment

Provide Unconditional Love and Support: Ensure she feels loved and supported regardless of her achievements.

Create a Safe Space: Make sure she knows she has a safe and supportive environment at home where she can express herself and feel secure.

9. Promote Healthy Body Image

Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle: Promote physical activity and healthy eating habits without focusing on weight or appearance.

Teach Media Literacy: Help her critically analyze media messages about beauty and body image to understand and challenge unrealistic standards.

10. Encourage Leadership

Provide Leadership Opportunities: Encourage her to take on leadership roles in school, sports, or community activities.

Support Her Goals: Help her set and achieve personal and academic goals, providing guidance and resources as needed.

By combining these strategies, you can help raise a little girl who is confident, capable, and prepared to navigate the challenges of life with strength and resilience.

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