Adolescence can be a difficult phase for girls, especially when they begin to notice their bodies changing. Girls Elevated, a Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital event, will aim to give parents and young girls tips on how to effectively communicate and manage these changes to help make growing up a little easier.
“The thought process in young girls and teens is very different than in adult women,” said Dr. Jennifer Dietrich, professor of pediatrics – obstetrics and gynecology at Baylor and chief of pediatric and adolescent gynecology at Texas Children’s Hospital. “We wanted to create an event that will give them tools to protect themselves and to gain knowledge early and continue on a path of healthy development.”
At the event, a team of experts will give teen and preteen girls knowledge they need to navigate the changes and challenges that lie ahead. They will experience fun and interactive sessions that will cover critical topics, from healthy relationships to the real image of beauty to coping with sexual pressures.
In addition, parents and caregivers will hear expert advice to help strengthen their bond with their teen, including setting boundaries and talking to adolescents about difficult subjects.
Topics for the girls will include:
- Puberty and menses
- Being a good friend
- Personal safety
- Assertiveness
- Mood management
- Preventative care
- Healthy relationships
