Girls In Sports

We want to enable girls to reach their potential in sport and life. With that, we want to encourage movement and physical activity at a young age.

But here is the problem, young women shy away from sports often because they are afraid of being perceived as unfeminine. Sounds crazy, but how can we blame them. When we use terms like " girl push-ups, " "tom-boy," we relay a message that for many young girls makes them fear trying new things.

HOW DO WE DO IT?

FIRST: EXPLORE

Help girls explore the plethora of sports and activities. Explain to them that everyone has a different skill, and therefore just because one is hard doesn't mean all others will be the same. Encourage young girls to try new activities, and remind them to have fun!

SECOND: TEACH THEM THAT ANYONE CAN PLAY

Being active at a young age should be about fun and movement. You don't need to be a hardcore athlete to be physically active. You don't need to win all the time, and you don't need to compete to participate in daily movement. Whether you have a young boy or girl, no gender should determine which sport you play.

THIRD: WATCH WHAT YOU SAY

As adults, we may have alternative motives for exercising. Remember, kids, are very impressionable. When you talk about exercise as a form of punishment, they pick up on it. Try instead, highlighting the positive aspects of your exercise regime. " I don't want to work out, but I want to lose weight, " vs " I'm moving my body to stay strong and healthy." Words can have a tremendous impact and will help shape a young girl's mindset.

FOURTH: WATCH SPORTS TOGETHER

Okay, this is a crucial one for young ladies. Take the time to sit and watch women's sports together. One of the main factors limiting participation is the lack of role models.  Seeing themselves in those roles creates relatability. Game time is also the perfect moment to teach kids the rules and language used in different sports.

FIFTH: BE THE LEADER

We don't need to rely on pro athletes to be the leaders. Anyone can make a positive impact. From their PE teacher to club coach and most importantly you! You are the one with the most impact.  Spend time educating, supporting, and lead by example!

Use these simple tools to help not just your loved ones but girls in your community. Participating in sports increases self-esteem and lowers the incidence of health risk behaviors. Spread the word! Get our girls moving!