In ancient Maya society, girls were valued members of their families and communities. Like boys, they were taught practical skills like cooking, weaving, and farming. Girls were also trained in social and religious customs, such as how to make offerings to the gods and participate in ceremonies. Some girls may have received specialized education in fields like astronomy, calendrics, or healing.
At the onset of puberty, girls participated in a coming-of-age ceremony that marked their transition into adulthood. During this ceremony, their hair was cut short, and they were given new clothing and jewelry to signify their new status. After the ceremony, girls were considered eligible for marriage.
Marriage for young Mayan girls was often arranged by their parents or other family members. Marriage was an important social and economic institution in Maya society, and the bride's family was expected to provide a dowry to the groom's family. Once married, a woman's primary role was to bear children and care for her family. However, women also played important roles as priestesses, weavers, and traders in Maya society.