8 Meaningful Ways to Empower Your Daughter or Niece (This International Women’s Day)

International Women's Day is a beautiful opportunity to think about the messages our girls hear every day - at home, at school and in the wider world. As a teacher and a mum, I truly believe empowerment doesn’t come from one big speech. It comes from small, repeated moments.

Here are simple, powerful ways to empower your daughter, niece or any young girl in your life.

1. Compliment Her Inner Beauty

Instead of focusing on appearance, highlight who she is.

Instead of: “You look so pretty today.”

Try:

• “You are such a thoughtful friend.”

• “I love how determined you are.”

• “You have such a kind heart.”

Example:When she shares her snack at school, say, “That was generous. That’s the kind of person you are.” Children build identity from what we consistently notice.

2. Praise Effort, Not Just Performance

Confidence grows from effort - not trophies.

Instead of: “Well done, you won!”

Try:

• “I saw how hard you practised.”

• “You didn’t give up even when it was tricky.”

• “You were really brave to try.”

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Example: If she struggles with homework but sticks with it, say, “I’m proud of how you kept going.” This builds resilience, not perfectionism.

3. Respect Her Choices

Empowerment begins with agency.

Let her:

• Choose her clothes (even if they clash).

• Order her own food.

• Decide which book to read.

Example: If she changes her mind, respond with, “It’s okay to rethink your choice. That’s part of learning.” When girls feel heard, they learn their voice matters.

4. Model Self-Love Out Loud

Little ears are always listening.

Say things like:

• “I love how strong my legs are.” (even if you dont!)

• “I’m proud of how hard I worked today.”

• “I like my smile.”

Then ask: “I love my (insert body part). What do you love?” Example: At bedtime, share one thing you appreciated about yourself that day - and invite her to do the same. When she sees you respect yourself, she learns to do the same.

5. Teach Confidence Through Small Risks

Confidence isn’t loud - it’s built.

Encourage her to:

• Speak to the shop assistant.

• Ask a question in class.

• Try the climbing frame.

• Join the new club.

Example: Before something nerve-wracking, say, “You can feel nervous and still be brave.”

That sentence alone is powerful.

6. Remind Her She Is Powerful (And That’s a Good Thing)

Some girls learn early to shrink themselves.

Be intentional about saying:

• “Your ideas matter.”

• “It’s good to take up space.”

• “You are allowed to lead.”

Example: If she organises a game with friends, say, “You’re a natural leader.” Let her associate power with kindness and strength - not something to apologise for.

7. Be Her Cheerleader

Let her see your pride. Clap loudly. Display her drawings. Leave her an encouraging message.

Example: After a performance, instead of analysing it, say, “I loved watching you. I could see how much joy you had.” She should never doubt that you are in her corner.

And Here’s The Important Part…

Of course, every single one of these things can (and should) be said to boys too.

Confidence. Emotional intelligence. Self-respect. Kindness. Resilience.

These aren’t ‘girl traits’, they are human traits.

On International Women's Day, we celebrate empowering girls - but true equality also means raising boys who feel secure enough to celebrate powerful women.

If this post resonated with you, keep an eye out for my companion piece for International Men's Day, where I’ll be sharing practical ways to empower the boys in our lives too.

Because empowered children grow into respectful adults - and that benefits everyone.

Hi, I’m Emma, Early Childhood Expert and founder of Everyday. My goal is simple: help parents understand their children better so every stage feels a little easier.

If this post was helpful, I’d love to keep sharing more like it.