First published 2000
Sports psychologist Caroline Silby draws on her background as a nationally ranked figure skater to create a comprehensive guide for parents raising athletic daughters. She addresses the unique challenges girls face in competitive sports, from choosing the right activity in elementary years to navigating complex issues that emerge as athletes mature. Silby uses case studies from her practice to illustrate common scenarios parents encounter. She covers practical concerns like finding appropriate coaching and managing competition anxiety alongside more serious issues including eating disorders and sexual harassment. The book provides concrete strategies for building confidence, maintaining motivation, and ensuring sports remain a positive force in young women's lives. Silby positions athletics as a pathway to empowerment rather than just physical fitness, showing parents how to advocate for their daughters while teaching girls to advocate for themselves.
Genres: self-help, sports, non-fiction, parenting
Vibes: empowering, informative, thought-provoking
Tropes: empowerment, self-advocacy
304 pages · Hardcover · Golden Books Adult Publishing
Content warnings: eating-disorder