Raising Confident Girls

Many parents today have discovered an enjoyable way to help their daughters develop self-confidence and learn to express themselves freely-two proven traits that help kids resist peer pressure. Young girls can learn these and other important characteristics through movies, DVDs and games, as well as in role playing.
According to experts at Columbia University Medical Center, a youngster with healthy self-esteem is better able to resist negative peer pressure than one who is insecure. Fortunately, parents can help by staying involved. As they watch a DVD with their children, parents can point out when the characters are acting with self-reliance and then ask their own girls what they would do in similar situations.
Messages such as positive self-assurance, building self-esteem and independence can be found in a series of films starring the popular Bratz dolls characters. For example, the new CGI-animated, full-length film "Bratz: Genie Magic," available on DVD from Fox Home Entertainment, follows the Bratz on a magical adventure. Yasmin, Cloe, Sasha and Jade think it's their lucky day when they make friends with a teenaged genie named Katia. She has magical powers and, best of all, she can grant wishes. They don't expect things to get wild and crazy when a secret is revealed about the genie girl that thrusts the Bratz into a world of intrigue and adventure.
The movie, which features the voices of Tia Mowry and Soleil Moon Frye, brings the popular girls to life like never before and addresses life-building situations.
Young women can learn valuable lessons that can be applied to their everyday lives from the Bratz adventures. The DVD teaches young girls important lessons such as having your own peace of mind and taking actions based on what you believe is right. Don't be afraid to ask questions and have the courage to have an opinion. Don't always believe what people tell you. Ask questions if it seems wrong and make up your own mind. Also, don't be afraid to speak up and say what you feel. Your opinion matters.