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International Women's Day and self-esteem for young girls

Filed under: Teens, Mommy Wars, Day Care & Education, That's Entertainment

Today is International Women's Day, a day to recognize women's achievements around the world, to look back on past struggles and look ahead to new areas of achievement for women. I don't think a lot about women's issues as a parent, because I'm raising a son. However, I do make sure to teach Kyle respect for women, equality and cross my fingers that he treats the females in his life fairly and kindly.

Sometimes I am glad I have a son instead of a daughter, because as much as we have progressed, we still have a long way to go. The media continues to portray women in negative ways, and eating disorders among young girls continues to be a serious problem.

I was really happy to see the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty begin and continue, complete with videos that address these issues. Their goal is to reinforce the belief that women should be appreciated just as they are, even by stating, "Every girl deserves to feel beautiful just the way she is."

"Advertisers in general bear a large part of the responsibility for the deep feelings of inadequacy that drive women to psychiatrists, pills, or the bottle. " ~Marya Mannes, But Will It Sell?, 1964

I remember peer pressure growing up because I was taller than the boys until I reached the 7th or 8th grade. I was also kind of a nerd and more interested in academics and reading than cheerleading and parties. I am happy to see girls being encouraged to do so much more than when I was growing up and an emphasis being placed on appreciating everyone's diversity, rather than making girls feel out of place for being "different."

As parents of young girls, how do you reinforce their self-esteem and confidence to help them overcome some of the biases that still exist for women? Do you feel like things have progressed since you've grown up?

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Start by teaching him that it is safe to do so.