100 percent TRUTH! Bossy girls are essential to the development of their peers.
1) These girls are detailed oriented.
“Bossy girls” are able to direct various players throughout a game and keep the connection between storyline and action going. They make the connections visible and therefore the game more fun for children with more immature play skills.
2) Bossy girls are attuned to the culture of the class.
When surprises occur children often read her reaction to know whether or not panic is necessary.
3) Bossy girls are expected to be brave and take on challenges head-on.
They know others are expecting them to trail blaze whether they want to or not.
4) Some girls land in this position out of choice, some from necessity.
Regardless it is an unspoken expectation that they will and must “take on” the teacher/grown-ups if need be. This is an unspoken expectation from the other children.
5) Bossy girls often get seen as a negative persona when in fact children rely on them in various ways.
One particular trait is bravery. Children assume she will be brave on all occasions.
6) These girls often get trapped in this role.
If more immature/anxious/hesitant players need their constant narration and prompting they have no choice but to continue.
7) When identified as a bossy girl instead of leader…
teachers and adults will not come to their aid or see that they are trapped and need help forming a new identity within the group.
8) Calling a girl bossy instead of a leader…
is very telling about the storyline you are hoisting upon her.
Being a “bossy girl” isn’t what the television tells you it is. Oftentimes this girl is the mini teacher, mom, warrior that other children need. It is an exhausting role for a girl to take on. Negative behaviors often arise when the weight is simply too much or she has social challenges she is masking.
So please honor, respect, and protect the Bossy Girl. She is a treasure!
If you have any questions, please let me know.
