A recent US-based study found that girls as young as age six believe that brilliance is a male trait. That’s not all. The study also found that by age six girls steer themselves away from activities perceived to be for the “really, really smart.”
Our words have a profound impact on our daughters. They take their cues from us. Parents can inadvertently reinforce gender stereotypes and undermine self-confidence with their words and actions. Parents can also bolster girls’ self-confidence and empower them with their words and actions.
- Show interest in her academics.
- Get her outside.
- Let her make choices.
- Let her pursue her own interests.
- Believe in her.