In my educational profession, I visit our children’s schools' daily. Within the walls of these elementary, middle and high schools, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many young girls. As a mother of three boys, I have additional opportunities to observe and get to know their female friends of varying ages as well. I have often been amazed by the intelligence, kindness, creativity and energetic spirit of these girls. At the same time, I am deeply disturbed.

Never before in our history have our girls been so exposed to outside influences. Previously, a girl's influence came primarily from within the home and local community. Now, with the astronomical explosion of technology and our reliance on it, our girls are inundated with messages from outside the home. Unfortunately, many of the messages are negative or have negative effects on our girls' spirit. In this technological age, our girls are being socialized by these messages, and may be unable developmentally to distinguish the healthy messages from the unhealthy messages. The time has come to take back our girls. It's time to collectively void these messages that drain the spirit, and replace them with hope, empowerment and enlightenment.

How can this be accomplished? By your involvement! By being aware of the realities in your teen’s world. Have conversations with your teen. Acknowledge and discuss the media messages they are receiving. Ask your teen how they think they are influenced by these messages. Let them know your viewpoint and point out some ideas they may not have thought about. Make sure this discussion occurs naturally, rather than lecture style. You can open up dialogue while watching tv together. Discuss the commercials.

Be aware of the tv shows your teen watches regularly. Realistically, you can limit certain shows in your own home but keep in mind your control does not extend outside of your household. As always, be realistic. Discuss some of the popular shows or channels, such as MTV. Acknowledge that while you understand they enjoy watching these shows or channels, you do not agree with their messages. Explain clearly what you disagree with. Although your teen may roll their eyes and act like they don’t care about your opinion; know that they do. It is much better for them to understand your views. Silence is generally interpreted as agreement so be sure to express your views. Just be sure it is done in a non-threatening way. Conversationally, is they key; otherwise you take the chance of triggering a rebellious mindset.

Collectively, as a family and as a community, we can grow girls, teens and young women that reflect our values. It does take a village to take back our girls. Let's develop an enlightened generation of young woman. It just takes awareness, effort and commitment.

Here’s to taking back our girls!