OPINION: Teaching Your Daughters Modesty

At a time when little girls are being sold itty bitty padded bikini tops, skinny jeans and low cut shirts with “Hottie” written on them, parents must be more diligent than ever to teach their young daughters about modesty. 

As with all other lessons, the groundwork to modesty lies in the example set by mom. Because daughters are likely to emulate their mothers, it is crucial for them to set a proper example. Not only is it important for mom to model modestly, but finding friends with similar values helps to validate what is taught at home. Because young girls often look up to female athletes and movie stars, making sure that the idols they choose exude modesty will go a long way towards promoting the same at home.

It is important to teach our daughters that confidence comes from within and that modesty is a way to show respect for yourself and others. By acknowledging the accomplishments and successes of our little girls rather than their hairstyle or outfit we send the message that they are valued for who they are rather than what they look like. Praising our daughters for virtues of thoughtfulness, kindness and generosity develops a strong self-esteem which translates into inner confidence. The goal is to preserve inward beauty and take the focus off of outward appearance. As little girls become teenagers they must be taught that immodest dress encourages immodest thoughts in others. 

From tricycles to convertibles, ballet slippers to high heels, dance recitals to proms, time with our precious daughters melts away in the blink of an eye. And, while we can’t turn back the hands on the clock, we can purpose to preserve the sweet innocence of childhood. It is fleeting. Little girls should play with barbies, not be dressed like them. Age appropriate, modest attire is readily available at stores throughout Malrborough. , and , for example, offer a wide variety of modest clothing for girls.

If we do not let our little girls be little girls we are doing them a real disservice.