Soon we’ll be shedding the coats and spending more time outside. Something to look forward to right? Perhaps, but did you know that according to studies, 80% of 10-year-olds are afraid of being "fat"? They’re constantly surrounded
by both subtle and direct messages that curvier or heavier girls aren’t as well liked, aren’t as likely to succeed in business, and in general, aren’t going to have as much fun or happiness in their lives. So, imagine how that fear escalates when summer comes and the coats come off.
I urge you to read the article entitled, "Yes, Your Daughter Just Called Herself Fat", written by Girl Scouts’ Developmental Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Bastiani Archibald and found in the Raise A Happy Girl section of the GSUSA website.
In the article you’ll find helpful hints for how to respond to your girl in a way that honors her concern while putting it in perspective. Supporting your daughter in ways that can lead to a healthier body enable her to focus on something realistic.
One way to support girls feeling better about their bodies is participating in activities that get them moving like our Marathon in a Month programs, and the summer programs at our Day and Overnight Camps! If you haven’t reviewed the amazing offerings at summer camp, please do, and remember that financial assistance is available!
There are many outstanding articles in Raise A Happy Girl so take a peek at those articles that interest you. It is my hope that you feel valued and supported in your role within GSSNE. We hope that by sharing these GSUSA articles we all receive helpful tips to become a better parent, caregiver,
Girl Scout staff member or volunteer!
I so hope to see you at our adult recognition event at beautiful Camp Hoffman in June—bring your family for a lovely day of good fun and food!
Finally, thank you for all you do! I am grateful for our members, volunteers, and staff, who tirelessly lead with passion for our mission. Our movement is not about any one person. It is about our collective stories and common beliefs found in our Promise and Law, and grounded in the legacy of those who came before us and urged on by the generations of girls to come!
Warmly, Your CEO - Pam
Supporting Her...