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Girl Power
Raising Smart, Bold Girls
By Tara Swords
Where do girls get these notions? Girls Incorporated has found that parents and teachers typically expect that girls will not perform as well as boys in science and math. In a case of the "self-fulfilling prophecy," these lowered expectations may be adopted by girls themselves, stunting their own ability to master more difficult subjects.
Additionally, there's no shortage of gender stereotypes in the media, says Weiss.
"A girl who is good in math and science, she is portrayed as socially clueless with big glasses," Weiss says. "The teen magazines which many kids devour make it clear that the ultimate point of your life is to keep up with the latest fashion, keep up with your girlfriends and be good with boys."
Weiss urges parents to let go of their own preconceptions. "Math and science can be fun and interesting and it's never too late," she says. "Some parents say, 'I was never any good at that,' or, 'I never liked it.' But there are opportunities to try it out yourself – and you'll also be helping your kids try it out."
Most importantly, Weiss says, let your daughter know that you don't believe in the stereotype that girls can't perform at math and science as well as boys can.
"Having parents – particularly a mother – who doesn't buy in to the stereotypes is one of the things that helps girls feel they can do well."
