Ten things little girls should hear before puberty

1. You are the boss of your body, so long as you're being smart about it.
2. It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks of how you look, it matters what you think.
3. There will be hard times; they do pass. Let's figure out ways to help them do that.
4. School is pretty much a hole filled with pressure, anxiety and hormones, but you don't have to drown in that.
5. Just in case you have a problem you can't come to me about, here's a list of websites and helplines and contact info for people who might help.
6. Your opinions are valid, and no one has a right to say they aren't, but make sure you listen to new information because opinions can change.
7. Be nice to your friends, even if it's easy to be mean to them--especially if it's easy.
8. General culture isn't that smart; think for yourself.
9. Always ask questions, especially about stuff people don't want you asking questions about.
10. "Finding who you are" is an ongoing, lifelong process; don't lose yourself and give in to things you know aren't you in the process of trying to figure out what is you.