When the Always brand of feminine products debuted its ad “Like a Girl” during the 2015 Super Bowl, it illustrated how the common phrase can affect the self-esteem of girls and women.
To “throw like a girl” is often translated to mean weakness, and “playing like a girl” suggests a lack of skill.
In the U.S., gender discrimination is sometimes indistinguishable from social norms and can have a damaging effect on the self-worth parents try to impart to their children.
How to counter that?
Stephanie M. Reich, associate professor of education at UC Irvine, says empowering young girls during their critical years of development, along with exposing them to programs that introduce new possibilities, can dramatically increase their chances for success.
“For young girls specifically, a sense of empowerment and having opportunities can be protective against many risks in their lives and facilitate positive development and well-being,” Reich said.
“Girls who think positively about their future are less likely to engage in high-risk behaviors (unprotected sex, substance use) and are more likely to engage in healthful behaviors (going to school, playing sports),” she said. “Also, studies of all-girl curricula and schools, along with programs that give girls a meaningful voice, have been found to be beneficial.”
Jose Cholula, a registered psychologist with the Child Guidance Center in Santa Ana, contends that empowering young girls begins by fostering a strong foundation.
“If a healthy foundation has been established by a positive environment, it is very likely that the young girls will have higher self-esteem and be empowered to make good choices in their social life, excel in academics and athletics, and be impactful leaders,” Cholula said.
Following are examples of local programs designed to empower young girls in Orange County through programming that supports their growth and development.
Girls Inc. of Orange County
What it does: Empowers girls and strives for gender equality. The group’s gender-specific curriculum is designed to equip girls to achieve academically, lead healthy and active lives, manage money, interpret media messages, have a positive body image, and develop an interest in science, technology, engineering and math. Programs offered for elementary school students include a daily after-school program with transportation provided from select local schools, holiday camps, summer camps and free monthly family events. Summer camps and themed workshops are offered for middle- and high-school students.
Location: Girls Inc. Youth & Family Center, 1815 Anaheim Ave., Costa Mesa
Cost: Elementary after-school program (during the school year) is $325 per month; holiday and summer camps are $135 per week, with drop-in rates available
Information: For elementary programs, girlsinc-oc.org or Kimberly Harnish at kharnish@girlsinc-oc.org, 949-646-7181; for middle and high school, Cathleen Chase at cchase@girlsinc-oc.org or 714-597-8607.
Girl Scouts of Orange County
What it does: Through the Girl Scout Leadership Experience – a collection of girl-led activities and experiences for girls in kindergarten through 12th grade – Girl Scouts earn badges, sell cookies, go on trips, explore the outdoors and do Take Action projects.
Location: Troops meet on various days and times at schools, churches and community centers throughout Orange County.
Cost: $20 annually
Information: girlscoutsoc.org or 949-461-8800
Girls on the Run Orange County
What it does: Dedicated to empowering girls through positive reinforcement and activities to build confidence and encourage healthy living. An after-school running-based program, for girls in elementary and middle school, meets two days a week, for 90 minutes each day, for 10 weeks. Fall and spring seasons culminate in a 5K race.
Locations: Martin Elementary School, 939 W. Wilshire Ave., Santa Ana; Wilson Elementary School, 1317 N. Baker St., Santa Ana; Ruby Drive Elementary School, 601 Ruby Drive, Placentia; South Lake Middle School, 655 W. Yale Loop, Irvine
Cost: $195 for a 10-week program
Information: girlsontherunoc.org or Gretchen Long at gretchen@girlsontherunoc.org, 949-423-6140
