how to improve women's sport participation
Answers
There are a large number of barriers to sports participation for both young boys and girls, but from our research, we know that there are many more for girls. Barriers are complicated, complex, numerous and depend a great deal on the social position of the girl. For some families, it’s money, for some it’s transportation, and for some it could be access to quality coaches. No matter the barrier a young female athlete faces, here are three ways parents and schools can encourage girls to become involved, and maintain involvement, in sports.
For parents, finding an activity the girl likes and enjoys is of utmost importance. It could be anything: basketball, cross country, yoga, dance, etc. You can best help by presenting the options available and then letting the girls choose.
For schools, offer programs girls want. As Title IX states, gender equity is required for boys and girls in every educational program that receives federal funding.
Parents and schools can work together to hire quality coaches who know what they’re doing and who ensure a physical, emotional and psychologically safe environment for all sport participants.