It’s been over two months since the Super Bowl, and there is something I can’t stop thinking about. No, it’s not Taylor and Trav or even Usher…well, maybe Usher (that performance had me feeling 22 again).
It’s the Dove “Hard Knock Life” commercial. If you didn’t see it, Google it. It truly is a must-watch. The overview of the commercial is that “The knocks don’t stop girls from playing sports, but low body confidence does.” It also states an alarming fact that by age 14, 45% of girls will quit their sport because of it. 45%! That number blew my mind.
The commercial has me reeling. As someone who grew up with low body confidence issues and other unhealthy habits, I truly believe that a lot of my struggles started once I quit sports in high school.
At five, my daughter is already showing a love of sports. Watching her play, run, kick, and move makes me happy. She is strong and confident. The hard part is keeping her that way. So what can I, or any mom of girls, do to maintain their confidence?
In a world of overstimulation in pictures, videos, role models, etc., here is what I will be doing to foster a healthy relationship between her body and mind and keep her playing.
1. Focus on Strengths and Abilities
I will always encourage her to focus on her strengths, talents, and abilities beyond her physical appearance. I want her to know how strong and capable she is always.
2. Focus on Participation
I will empower her to participate in sports that interest her. Let her choose the activities she enjoys. (Unless it’s a club team, which will cost us thousands of dollars. Kidding!) I will also expose her to all the different sports so she can find something she loves.
3. Be a Positive Role Model and Expose Her To Them
As a personal trainer, I always ensure my kids see me work out and move my body. But more importantly, it’s how I talk about it in front of them. I tell them I work out to “be strong,” “clear my mind,” and “kick their butts in a race.” I avoid all negative self-talk.
It also goes beyond me. I try to expose her to other role models. Women in sports are a force right now, and I make sure she knows about Caitlin Clark, Simone Biles, Katie Ledecky, and Serena Williams. The list could go on. Show your daughters what women are capable of.
So, to all the “girl moms” out there. Let’s try our best to keep them confident, keep them strong, and, most importantly, keep them participating. We could all have the next Olympian, basketball star, lacrosse recruit, or professional ballerina on our hands. We have to keep them going!
