Children are more likely to do things when they’re expected to do them.

Sometimes society expects different things from girls and boys. For example, boys might be expected to be better at math than girls. This isn’t fair.

You can help by expecting your daughter to succeed in all kinds of things, no matter what society assumes. Here are some ways to be supportive:

• Suggest “non-traditional” activities. Ask your daughter to help you fix the car, for example, or mow the lawn.

• Talk about stereotypes. Help your child think about why they’re unfair.

• Praise your daughter’s skills more often than her appearance.

• Don’t “rescue” your daughter from every challenge. Solving problems will build her confidence.

• Notice women on TV, in films and in magazines. Discuss how the media portrays females.

• Encourage your child to do well in math. Ask if she’d like to take a computer class or attend a math camp.

• Let your daughter participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports and student government.

• Ask your child about her hopes for the future. If she’s interested in a certain career, suggest that she read about it or volunteer in the field.

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