vity could change the direction for women in sports in the future. One way to change the direction of women in sports positively is to eliminate gender-typing whenever possible. Activities should never be labeled as girls games or boys games, feminine or masculine. When children come to school with preconceptions about girls games and boys games, teachers may wish to introduce new activities that arent already gender-typed (e.g., hackey-sack, croquet and so on). Leaders should avoid using sex as a basis for forming physical activity groups. If children need to be grouped, use criteria that are gender-neutral (e.g. kids with brothers versus kids with sisters etc.). Girls and boys need to work and play together, starting from an early age. Arbitrarily segregating girls and boys may create hostility and perpetuate power imbalances, and although there has been a great deal of recent interest in gender-segregated schools, there is as yet no direct evidence that gender-segregated physical activity is desirable. The important consideration is to be sure that all children have adequate preparation. It is easiest for both sexes to play together and learn in small, non-competitive groups, where children know each other well and have the prerequisite skills. Another step to success is that professionals must actively intervene in the face of discrimination. When adults observe inequities or gender stereotyping on the playing field or in the classroom, it is often best to openly confront issues of sexism, prejudice or discrimination. Children should be encouraged to develop critical thinking about gender-based biases. Coaches and physical educators could play an influential role for women in sports as well. They should give girls equal access and attention. Both girls and boys should play the important and interesting positions in a game (e.g., pitcher, goalie, forward). In addition, both should receive feedback to help improve their...
