In today’s world, we have women in powerful and influential positions that are young girls should look up to. Jacinda Adern, Greta Thunberg, Malala Yousafzai, Dr. Jill Biden, and Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. All prominent figures around the world who work tirelessly to empower women and girls in one way or the other. Their confidence is so inspiring and worth teaching to our little girls.
Growing up, it’s important that young girls see themselves represented. Whether that’s in movies, TV or news. When they see powerful women on a daily basis. They start to believe that they can achieve great things too.
But why is it important to instill confidence in this day and age?
Women and girls, at any age, are no strangers to criticism. No matter how they look or what they do. They’re constantly told that they need to look a certain way or behave timidly. All in order to succeed and be taken seriously.
If we look at some of the most influential women today. We can see that they did not get to where they are simply by being quiet. They fought for their positions and their confidence and resilience took them to higher places. If you’re looking for ways you can teach your daughters how to be confident from a young age. Here’s our advice.
1| Practice What You Preach
Children are quick to model their parents’ behavior. If you try to teach your daughters how to be confident. But you constantly doubt your own self in front of them. They won’t be able to develop their own sense of confidence. Encourage your daughters to read books about women in history. Take the time to read with her so that she sees you’re interested in the topic as well. If you’re teaching our daughters to always stand up for themselves. It’s vital that they see you do so as well.
2| Don’t Focus on Appearances
Young girls are quick to judge others, and themselves, based on their looks or what they wear. In many instances, we see schools in different countries enforcing dress codes for girls. It’s important that young girls understand that appearances aren’t everything. Teach them that they are loved for their personality and capabilities, rather than what they look like. Society teaches women to be harshly critical of themselves, but if we educate them from a young age, we can tackle how we treat other women and ourselves.
3| Teach Her About Strong Women
The internet is available, of course, but there’s nothing stopping you from teaching your daughters about a powerful woman every now and then. There are so many women in history who still make strides in 2021 and it’s essential that younger girls are aware of this. Pick a leader for each week and educate your children on their experiences and accomplishments.
4| Encourage Her to Play Team Sports
The keyword here is to encourage, rather than force or push your daughters to take part in sporting activities. Studies have shown that girls who play sports have higher levels of confidence, but they have to willingly take part. Do your best to showcase the benefits of playing sports, without making it seem as though you are pressuring them into it. Children generally need to be eased into different activities or hobbies and they will only truly enjoy it if it’s something they want to do. Teach her about the women athletes who have made it past every obstacle and are now household names!
5| Teach Assertiveness
There’s a fine line between being assertive and being “bossy”, as many like to call it. When girls are confident and assertive, they’re often looked at in a negative light. The key is to be assertive in a firm and polite way. Women are seen as demanding or difficult when they speak their minds, but we need to empower younger girls to stand up for themselves and speak up for what is right.
6| Don’t Compare Her to Others
Your daughters have their own sense of individuality. Comparing her to others will demotivate her and make her feel bad about herself. It’s very easy to compare children to others and their accomplishments, but rather than compare, we can encourage them to be their best selves. Praise their efforts, rather than the outcomes. Of course, you’re allowed to celebrate their achievements, but even then, try to steer the conversation towards praising their hard work too.
This article is written by Edarabia
About Edarabia
Edarabia.com is the Middle East’s #1 Education Guide to helping students, parents and educators compare and select the best institutions. Launched in 2005 (formerly IQEA.org), Edarabia has become a trusted source in the field of education. Visitors to the site can follow the latest industry news, upcoming events, job listings, research studies, compare college ratings and add reviews. Edarabia covers all levels of education including but not limited to universities, colleges, schools, nurseries, language institutes, training academies, music schools and online universities.
