Young women advance from class to class according to chronological age. A young woman enters Young Women as a member of the Beehive class at the time of her 12th birthday. She advances to the Mia Maid class at the time of her 14th birthday, and to the Laurel class at the time of her 16th birthday.
Advancement by birthday provides opportunities for individual attention and recognition. . . . This policy discourages [a young womanT from limiting her association to one established group. A young woman learns to move independently of the group, thus strengthening her own identity.Advancement and progress of young women should be recognized by priesthood leaders, young women leaders, and parents. Class presidencies should also plan a special welcome for each young woman as she enters a new class. - Young Women Leadership Handbook, pp. 5-6
