Why Sharing Herstory with Children is Inspiring for the Next Generation

There are approximately 3.95 billion women across the globe, close to half of all humans who inhabit the Earth. Throughout history, women have made significant contributions to society, culture, science, politics, and many other fields. Celebrating their achievements helps recognize and honor their impact and Women’s History Month is a perfect time to do just that.

Women’s History Month honors the contributions, achievements, and struggles of women throughout history. Its roots can be traced back to the first International Women’s Day in 1911. However, officially, Women’s History Month has only been recognized since 1987, thanks to lobbying by the National Women’s History Alliance, formerly known as the National Women’s History Project. March provides us with the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the often-overlooked roles women have played in shaping history. From well-known historical figures like Harriet Tubman and Marie Curie to modern-day activists such as Malala Yousafzai and Caitlin Clark there are countless women to pay tribute to.

This year, take this opportunity to have conversations with your children about the importance of Women’s History Month. Introducing children to the stories of remarkable women can inspire them to dream big and believe in themselves. When children learn about trailblazers like Rosa Parks who fought for racial equality; Katherine G. Johnson whose calculations helped put a man on the moon; or Sonia Sotomayer, the first Hispanic U.S. Supreme Court Judge they see examples of resilience, intelligence, and determination. Their stories can instill the belief that they too can make a difference in the world, regardless of their gender. Women’s History Month is also a great time to explore parts of history and the women who have impacted pivotal events and who are often overlooked in traditional textbooks, like Mae Jemison, the first African American female astronaut who flew on board The Endeavour. By learning about women’s achievements across various fields, children can gain a broader understanding of history and the diverse roles women have played in shaping it.

This month also provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of gender equality in the context of celebration. By highlighting both the struggles women have faced and the progress that has been made, children can develop a deeper understanding of why equality is essential. It is a complex topic even for adults and these conversations can help cultivate empathy and a sense of justice from an early age. Teaching children about women’s history also promotes respect for the abilities of women and girls in many areas of education and professions that are seen as “traditionally male.” Research done by the University of Houston finds that children start to believe that boys are more interested than girls in engineering by age six and that children start to believe that boys are more interested than girls in computer science by age eight. By talking about the specific accomplishments of women chemists, scientists, and engineers – you can thank Josephine Cochran who came up with the dishwasher concept in 1872 by using water pressure, instead of scrubbers that were used back then, to clean dishes, we can continue to promote equity and opportunity for girls whatever their areas of interests are. These stories of achievement are not only for girls. Young boys grow up to be advocates for women and social change, and these discussions help them recognize the value of diversity and the importance of including everyone, regardless of gender and race, to create a more inclusive and respectful society. 

Women’s History Month does not have to be all about historical figures or women who have made transformative discoveries, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the women who have influenced your life personally such as your grandmother, mother, aunt, teacher, or coach. It is a wonderful time to honor their personal stories and the impact they’ve had on your life and the lives of the others around you. The women in your life have likely overcome challenges, broken barriers, and made significant contributions to your family and community. By recognizing and celebrating their achievements, you not only show them how much you appreciate and respect them but also inspire others to appreciate the women in their own families and the role they have played in shaping their personal history. 

Stories about the women who have inspired us should be shared and celebrated year-round. However, Women’s History Month is a great time to have purposeful conversations about the achievements, challenges, and histories of incredible women with your children, and to teach them the meaning of You Go Girl!

Rebecca L. Palmer, Esq. is a Family & Marital Law attorney practicing in Orlando, FL. She may be reached at rebecca@fierce-price.flywheelsites.com.