Adolescence marks a critical life transition for girls.
It can be as dramatic as the physical, social, emotional and cognitive transitions of the early years. Developing an emerging identity and challenging new frontiers of personal autonomy can involve risk-taking behaviour including smoking, dieting, dating and sexual activity. Many young people, particularly girls between the ages of 8 and 13 are at risk for making choices that may negatively affect their overall well-being. Girls need to be ready for the choices they will face later in life, but they need to learn about these choices much earlier. Preparing them early will strengthen them, making it easier for them to think wisely as they move into adolescence and adulthood.