This World Daughters Day (28 September), we are shining a light on how parents and carers can raise confident, empowered girls in today’s world.

Advocating for them in school, fostering self-esteem, and championing inclusive opportunities, especially in unpaid or underfunded areas, all play a vital role.

Schools and families together can help nurture girls’ potential by encouraging teachers to spotlight women’s achievements in lessons, calling for diverse representation in school books, and supporting extracurricular activities. These small but powerful actions help level the playing field and remind girls that their voices and futures truly matter.

Ways to foster self-esteem

Helping your daughter build confidence starts with small, consistent actions at home. Here are a few simple ways you can nurture self-esteem:

• Encourage individuality by letting her explore her interests and talents, even if they differ from your own.
• Model positive self-talk so she learns to speak kindly about herself.
• Show self-care matters by demonstrating healthy habits like rest, exercise, and setting boundaries.
• Celebrate effort over perfection by praising her for trying, problem-solving, and showing resilience rather than just "getting it right."
• Be mindful with screens and talk openly about what she sees online.
• Surround her with role models by sharing stories about women who have made a difference, whether they are from history, science, sports, or your own family.

Ways to celebrate World Daughters Day

• Write your daughter a heartfelt letter about what you love and admire about her.
• Plan a special day together. A walk, picnic, or craft project can feel meaningful and create lasting memories.
• Share books or stories that feature strong female characters and talk about what makes them inspiring.

Supporting inclusive opportunities in unpaid or underfunded areas

Some areas such as sports teams, after-school clubs, or creative programs can be underfunded or unevenly accessible. Look for community-based projects, scholarship programs, or school initiatives that actively include girls. Advocating for funding or volunteering your time can help break down barriers and create equal opportunities for all children.

Building her confidence every day

Raising confident girls is about boosting their self-esteem and giving them the tools to stand tall, speak up, and know they belong in every space they choose.

If you and your daughter are facing challenges, remember that practical help is available. FTCT provides grants to help families cover the cost of essential items for children, including school uniforms and bedroom furniture.

UK resources for parents

If you would like further support on helping your daughter thrive, check out these UK organisations:

• YoungMinds - mental health resources and guidance for parents and carers.
• Girlguiding UK - empowering activities and groups for girls of all ages.
• STEM Learning - free resources to inspire girls in science, technology, engineering, and maths.

Support for families who need help

If you're a parent struggling financially and you work in the fashion & textile industry, FTCT may be able to help. We believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, which is why we provide grants to support families facing financial challenges.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible for a grant if you work or have recently worked for a fashion or textile employer and are caring for a child under 18.

We help parents in many situations, including:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness or bereavement
• Families who are rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Low-income households struggling with long-term financial hardship

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants cover essential items for children, such as:

• School uniforms
• Essential appliances
• Children’s bedroom furniture  

How do I apply for an FTCT grant?

If you have read through all our criteria and would like to apply, please complete our online enquiry form.