Staying active has countless benefits for young girls – from boosting confidence and building friendships to improving physical health and supporting mental wellbeing. Yet research shows that many girls reduce or even stop their involvement in sport as they get older, often during their teenage years. As parents, you play a vital role in helping your daughters stay active and enjoy the lifelong benefits of movement. Here are some practical ways to encourage them.
Lead by example
Children are far more likely to value physical activity if they see it modelled at home. You don’t have to be running marathons or competing in sport – a family bike ride, a weekend walk, or joining a local fitness class together can make a big impression. Showing that you prioritise movement in your own life helps normalise it for your daughter.
Focus on fun, not perfection
One of the biggest reasons girls drop out of sport is the pressure to perform. Shift the focus away from winning or being the best and emphasise enjoyment instead. Ask your daughter what activities she finds fun – whether it’s football, dance, swimming, or even skateboarding – and encourage her to explore those options. When sport feels like play, it’s far more sustainable.
Celebrate effort and progress
Praising effort rather than outcomes helps build resilience and self-belief. Whether your daughter scores a goal, learns a new skill, or simply shows up to training when she doesn’t feel like it, celebrate the progress she’s making. Small wins add up to long-term motivation.
Provide choice and variety
Not every girl will enjoy traditional team sports. Expose your daughter to a variety of activities so she can discover what she genuinely loves. From martial arts to climbing walls, netball to yoga, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” in sport. The more options she tries, the more likely she’ll find something that sticks.
Support her social side
For many girls, the friendships they build through sport are just as important as the activity itself. Encourage her to join clubs with friends or invite schoolmates to join in. Having a supportive social network often makes the difference between dropping out and staying committed.
Break down barriers
Sometimes girls stop participating because of barriers such as lack of kit, concerns about appearance, or even cultural expectations. Talk openly with your daughter about what’s stopping her and work together to find solutions. This could mean buying sportswear she feels comfortable in, discussing body confidence, or finding female-only spaces where she feels safe.
Be her biggest cheerleader
Above all, encouragement matters. Show up to matches, ask her how training went, and listen to her experiences. Your interest and support can make her feel valued and motivated to keep going.
Helping girls stay active isn’t about pushing them into sport they don’t enjoy – it’s about giving them the freedom, support, and encouragement to move in ways that feel good. With your help, your daughter can develop a positive relationship with sport that will last well into adulthood.
