How to Be a Tomboy in Elementary School

Last Updated: October 19, 2021 References

Tomboys are active and adventurous girls. They enjoy racing around the playground with the guys and beating the boys in video games. Since they participate in so many “boyish” activities, many tomboys also like to dress more masculine.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Acting Like a Tomboy

1
Play sports. Some tomboys love sports! If you enjoy being active, spend your free time and recesses playing games. You may even want to join an organized sports team. You can try hockey, basketball, volleyball, swimming, running, football, softball, or baseball.
2
Try video games. Some tomboys prefer video games to sports games. Instead of running around outside or on the court, spend your free time gaming. You can play games by yourself or with a group of friends.
- Ask your parents for permission before trying a new game.
Advertisement
3
Enjoy "boy" toys. Tomboys play with a variety of toys. Some prefer motorized toys, like remote control cars, dirt bikes, and drones; others like to play with skateboards and BMX bikes.
- Also, not all tomboys have to like the same activities. You can be a tomboy that enjoys skateboarding but hates sports.^{[1]
  X
  Research source}
4
Don't be afraid to get dirty! Tomboys are unapologetically active. They don't shy away from rough and tumble activities. While most girls prefer to sit on the sidelines, tomboys don't think twice about getting their shoes muddy on the field or ripping a new pair of jeans while climbing a tree.
- Be more concerned about having fun than how you look. For example, don't shy away from a game of tag on picture day.
5
Hang out with the guys. Girly-girls and tomboys don't always have a lot in common. When you're at school, you may find that you prefer to spend time with boys. Don't be afraid to spend your recesses racing around the playground with the guys. If you are having fun, that's all that matters!^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Instead of going to the mall, spend your Saturday playing video games with the guys.
- Instead of ballet, ask your parents to sign you up for baseball.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Being Your Own “Tomboy”

1
Be confident in your decision. Once you start acting like a tomboy, your family and friends may start to question your decision. When they ask why you're acting like a boy, take the time to explain your choice. While you shouldn't have to explain yourself, it may help them understand you a little better.
- For example, you could say “I don't want to wear dresses and skirts because it is easier to run and play in pants” or “I don't want to go to the mall because I would rather be outside playing.”^{[3]
  X
  Research source}
2
Compromise with your parents. While some parents support their daughter's decision, others may not like that their daughter is becoming a tomboy. If your parents are not okay with your decision to become a tomboy, try your best to compromise with them. For example, you could offer to wear a dress to family events, but wear athletic clothing in your daily life.
- If you feel upset by dresses, try to explain to them that they make you feel bad about yourself. Explain that you like the way you look in your tomboy clothes, and that you aren't yourself in a dress.
- You might say "I am who I am. I need you to accept me. I feel bad when I tell you who I am and you tell me I'm not that person."
3
Seek support when needed. As you become a tomboy, adults and kids may tease you or question or decision. If your peers are teasing or bullying you, tell a supportive adult immediately. If your teachers do not agree with your decision, speak with your parents, a school administrator, or a school counselor. If adults are pressuring you to "act" or "look" like a girl, remember that you don't have to conform to their definition of "girliness." You can decide how you want to look and act.
4
Determine what being a “tomboy” means to you. Embracing your inner tomboy means that you are choosing to act and look more like a boy and less like a girl. This is a big bold step! As you discover who you are, remember that there is not one right way to be a tomboy. Just be you!^{[4]
X
Research source}
5
Don't be afraid to explore your girly side. When you decide to become a tomboy, you don't have to give up the parts of being a girl that you enjoy. You can (and should) continue to do the girly things that you enjoy.
- If you like wearing dresses, continue to wear dresses.
- If you want to wear your hair down, you can.
- If you want to watch a girly movie, go for it.^{[5]
  X
  Research source}

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Looking Like a Tomboy

1
Wear clothes you can play in. Tomboy fashion is practical and durable. Wear clothes that you can run around in. You don't want to worry about ruining your outfit. The colors and cut are totally up to you!
- Wear pants instead of skirts.
- Put on a graphic tee instead of a blouse. If you do want to wear a button up, wrap a flannel around your waist.
- Rock athletic wear when you can.^{[6]
  X
  Research source}
2
Accessorize with boyish flare. Tomboys express themselves with masculine accessories. Replace your sun hat with a backwards ball cap. Trade your ballet flats in for sneakers. Replace your purse with string bag.^{[7]
X
Research source}
3
Have a low-maintenance beauty routine. Most tomboys don't want to spend a lot of time in front of the mirror in the morning. To save yourself time, you can cut your hair shorter. If your friends are starting to wear makeup, like lipgloss, skip it. These two tricks will get you outside playing a lot faster in the morning!^{[8]
X
Research source}

Expert Q&A

Question

How should I act if I want to come off as a bit of a tomboy?

Natalie Tincher
Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. With more than 10 years of experience, Natalie specializes in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News.

Natalie Tincher

Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist

Expert Answer

Tomboys are generally associated with a more laid back and relaxed style, but you shouldn't force yourself to act one way or another. Just be you!
Question

What sports could I try instead of basketball?

Community Answer

The possibilities are endless! You could try football, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, track, soccer, tennis, or any other activity that you take an interest in.
Question

Do you have to like sports?

Community Answer

Not at all! Liking sports is not a requirement. It is mentioned in this article because it is a common characteristic of Tomboys. Feel free to determine what being a Tomboy means for you!