Updated: Aug. 20, 2015
Originally Published: July 21, 2015
I’m on a mission to teach my young teenage daughter how to be a true “sister” to her friends. Being a sister means supporting and uplifting other women, creating a close-knit circle of friends who look out for one another. Here are some valuable lessons I’m sharing with her on how to embody that sister-friend spirit:
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Share Your Essentials
No girl should go through life alone. Middle school can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to unexpected visits from Aunt Flo. To prepare my daughter, I packed a discreet little survival kit in a makeup bag, complete with pads, tampons, wipes, and a travel-size deodorant. I encouraged her to be proactive—if she sees someone in need, even if they’re not best buddies, she should step up. Offer your supplies, even if it’s your last tampon; they can always be replaced later!
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Stick Together
When at a party or waiting outside for a ride, it’s crucial to never leave a friend behind. It’s a harsh reality that girls can face dangers when separated from their friends. Always ensure that a friend is safely picked up by a parent, older sibling, or bring them home yourself. Remember, you and your friends are a package deal. If one stays, you stay; if one goes, you go. Sure, it can be tough when the cute guy is paying attention to someone else, but safety should always come first. I learned this the hard way once, and I was thankful I decided to check on a friend who needed help just in time.
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Avoid the Rivalry Trap
While it’s normal to compete for spots on sports teams or in student elections, don’t let boys come between you and your friends. At 14, the boy you’re crushing on probably won’t be your future husband. The bond of friendship is often much stronger and longer-lasting than any teenage romance. If you find yourself in a sticky situation, gracefully step aside. It may hurt, but your friendship is worth preserving. And if he tries to come back later? Well, let’s just say he’s probably not worth your time.
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Make Room for Your Girls
When you find yourself in a relationship, it’s easy to get lost in the romance. But don’t forget your girlfriends! They want to feel valued too. So, no matter how infatuated you are, make sure to check in with them. Because when the love story ends, you’ll want your friends by your side.
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Be There, Day or Night
If a friend calls you at 3 a.m. in need, answer the phone! You’d want her to do the same for you. And let’s be real—your phone is probably already right next to you anyway.
Navigating middle and high school can be a rollercoaster, filled with both highs and lows. There’s no better way for our daughters to grow up than surrounded by a supportive group of girlfriends who celebrate successes and provide comfort during tough times. By instilling these values, we help our girls become strong, dependable women for one another—like sisters.
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Summary:
This article encourages young girls to be supportive friends, emphasizing the importance of sharing, safety, and maintaining bonds over petty rivalries. It highlights how to navigate friendships during the tumultuous teenage years, ensuring that girls grow into strong allies for one another.