Girl Director includes lots of advice on idea generation and creative techniques, as well as information on handling publicity, film festivals, and distribution. Fascinating bits of women’s filmmaking history, interviews with contemporary female filmmakers, and plenty of resources provide further inspiration and motivation.

As girls ponder the possibilities, it’s important to show them other movies made by kids. A reasonable first-time effort is a two- to five-minute short, not a full-length feature film. Youth film festivals are growing, so watchful parents might find one in a nearby locale. The youth media group Listen Up has plenty of news about youth films, competitions, and meetings.

While it’s great to also show girls women-made or women-friendly films, remind them that every filmmaker starts out with modest, imperfect results. “As girls get to the tween and teen ages, they can get too self-conscious about turning out something that isn’t perfect,” says Kearney. “Boys more often tend to be satisfied with a first effort.”

Another gender caution: If your daughter attends a co-ed film class, urge her to be assertive about getting her fair share of attention and access. “Boys are often more comfortable with technology and just picking something up and using it,” observes Kearney. “Girls are still socialized to let the boys take over.”

Don’t hesitate to start early. Even 7-year-olds can handle a camera, and they certainly have no lack of imagination. “It’s a real thrill to see these small girls making their own movies,” says Kearney. “When they start early and feel comfortable doing it, they’re much more likely to stick with it.”

And parents who own any kind of family movie-making equipment can start today. “Next time there’s a birthday or other event, let your daughter do the filming,” suggests Kearney. “Doing a specific, requested project is a great way to get started.”

Reader Tip: Want to inspire your daughter to begin her own creative movie-making projects? Check out great girl-created videos at New Moon Girls.

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