10 things parents shouldn't tell their daughters [Part 2]

oge okonkwo

September 30, 2015 6:29 PM

As a parent, if your daughter has potentials of a future leader, don't try to cut her expectations short by telling her being average is the norm

Father and daughter talk

Most times our society frowns upon young girls who stand up for themselves, in terms of reaching for what they believe in.

Parents out of fear for what the community or society would say, tell their daughters to lower their goals, expectations and settle for the norm.

READ: 5 common phrases that should never be used by parents on their children

They tend to forget that she'll be a woman someday, passing what has been taught to her down to her daughters and the circle goes on.

Phenomenal women who have recorded their names in history books, stepped out of that vicious circle, never settled for anything less than they deserved and were the odd ones who decided not to be called average.

READ: How technology addiction makes you and your children miserable

According to Lifehack, teenage girls should be given better advice by their parents rather than hearing these words. Read the first part of this article here:

6. "Don't aim too high, lower your expectations": As a parent, if your daughter has potentials of a future leader, don't try to cut her expectations short by telling her being average is the norm. The girl child will never reach her full potential as a woman if her wings are constantly clipped. Let her look up to someone as a role model.

7. "Don't worry your pretty head": Puberty for girls has it's own set of problems, she wants to explore as she transitions into a woman and is bound to feel different kind of emotions at once. Try to make her know that you understand what she's going through, instead of telling her not to worry herself over issues which are important to her.

READ: 10 parenting tips for raising unspoiled, thankful kids

8. "I'll help you do that": As little girls come of age, parents are advised to reduce trying to step in for every problem these girls may face. Helping them with every task makes them totally dependent on you. Letting them solve some problems makes them highly independent women in future.

9. "Girls shouldn't eat too much": A girl transitioning into a woman has a lot of insecurities to deal with especially body issues. She either falls into an eating binge or starts to diet. As a parent, your honest advice should be all she needs but it shouldn't come in form of criticisms. Criticising your teenage daughter on her eating habits would worsen those insecurities.

READ: 6 ways to have a loving marriage and wonderful kids too

10. "You are too young to handle that": Allow your daughter to plan her future from a very early age. It's more than just asking her whats she wants to become in life. If your daughter opens up her ambition and aspirations to you, never doubt what she can do. Rather, encourage her to work hard.

oge okonkwo