Every day, girls outperform boys in the classroom – in every subject. But why are boys usually doing better on standardized tests when it comes to “boy subjects” like math and science?
Below are 15 Ways To Empower Girls in the classroom.
Studies have shown that girls as young as 6 years old can experience what is scientifically called a “stereotype threat”: a psychological effect that subconsciously stifles girls from confirming negative stereotypes about their social group.
While we as adults never tell the girls outright, they are worse in math than boys or they should not become engineers, biologists or rocket scientists – the message we are giving in our everyday actions is loud and clear. It is in the toys we buy, the gifts we give and the way we discipline assertive behavior differently in girls than in boys.
GoldieBlox, a toy manufacturer who set out to change this, summarized it so beautifully in their commercial:
Here are some ways (inside the classroom and beyond) we can empower our girls to grow up to be strong, confident leaders.
15 Ways To Empower Girls – Avoid Mixed Messages:
- Be conscious of mixed messages – Girls are exposed to mixed messages in many ways. Be aware of them and talk about it.
- Be sure that both girls and boys share household chores, and all jobs are regularly rotated.
- Encourage extracurricular activities. Sports and clubs provide kids with opportunities to build relationships and develop self-esteem.
- Show an equal degree of support in girl’s athletics. This became again apparent when my 6-year old asked why there are no girls in the SuperBowl.
- Resist the urge to jump in and come to the rescue. Let her try and figure it out by herself – if she needs your help, she will ask.
15 Ways To Empower Girls – Empower Girls Through Responsibility & Role Models:
- Encourage girls to take on roles of responsibility (e.g., act as a mentor, helper, prefect, adviser or student government representative)
- Allow them to become role models (carefully guide the girls who have taken on a responsibility to become positive role models
- Talk about your role in society. Are you a working mother? How can you have a family and a job?
- There are plenty of amazing books featuring female heroes. Check out A Mighty Girl for inspiration.
- There are many female scientists, pilots, business leaders and doctors and other role models. Talk about them, their achievements, their path in life and possible obstacles they had to overcome.
15 Ways To Empower Girls – Make Smart Toy Choices:
- Buy a variety of toys in a variety of colors and use cases, not just the typical princess / baby toys.
- Encourage problem-solving skills through STEM activities
- Put together tinkering trays or boxes and encourage girls to use them (this is another great resource)
- Be an active parent involved in your child’s play. Focus on internal (“what will your doll become when she grows up) rather than external factors (“your doll is wearing a pretty dress)
- Let them get messy and loud once in a while (btw: summer camp is a great outlet for emerging leaders!)
15 Ways To Empower Girls – How do you empower your daughters?
Do you have any tips to share of your own? We would love to hear them.
