A recent article outlining tips for communicating with girls offered insight from Jeanne Brooks-Gunn, professor psychological development and co-director of Center for Children and Families. Brooks-Gunn suggested that parents should avoid discussing physical changes that girls undergo when they are in the presence of males, because while "Your intentions may be good, girls [say] that they see this as teasing."

She also suggested that girls be encouraged to develop friendships with peers of the same age. "My studies show that girls whose friends are the same age don't have the behavior problems of those with older friends," she said.

The article, entitled "Helping Girls Grow Up" appeared in the July 7 online edition of Better Homes and Gardens.

Published Monday, Jul. 28, 2003