In a time of bullying and increasing peer pressure, a women’s group is trying to encourage young girls to hold onto their voices.
Girl Power, a free self-esteem group sponsored by the South Okanagan Women In Need Society, is for girls ages 10 to 12 to have a place to meet and talk in a safe environment
“I think girls at that age in particular are going through a lot with changes at school and within themselves,” said Liz Gomes, children who witness abuse counsellor with SOWINS. “When people are feeling confident they make healthy choices for themselves. We see this as a really important and vital part about learning about yourself as you grow up. We are celebrating the great things about yourself so you’re confident and make those positive choices.”
Topics the group will touch on include friendships and peer pressure, body image and media, communication skills, stress reduction through yoga and kickboxing, nutrition and exercise and healthy and positive decision making.
“With images from the media and Hollywood and all the bullying that has become so prevalent, this is an important time to have a program like this,” said Gomes.
This is the second year SOWINS is hosting the Girl Power program and Gomes requests that participants register before Jan. 10 as space is limited. Participants must have parent or guardian permission forms signed to take part of the program. There are eight weekly sessions running from Jan. 25 to March 14 from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m.
“Last year was great, the girls really enjoyed it and they were able to try some new things like yoga and kickboxing. They were disappointed when it was all over. We could really see them learning and growing from each other,” said Gomes.
To register or for more information call 250-493-4366 ext. 102.