When girls and boys enter kindergarten, they typically start off on a level playing field with similarly measured math and science abilities. But by the time these same students graduate from high school, the girls will be behind boys in both ability and self-esteem for both of these subjects. Previous studies have shown that many girls' interest in science declines as they go through school. And many parents and teachers have been inclined to believe that if middle-school and high-school girls show no interest in science or math, there's little anyone can do about it.

 

But for many girls, this lack of interest is really just a lack of confidence, and it's something any parent with a daughter should take seriously. When girls avoid math and science classes they may not realize that they are cutting themselves off from lucrative opportunities in college and careers ... not to mention potential opportunities to save the planet!

 

Here are a few ideas for keeping your daughters active and interested in math and science throughout their school years, and beyond: