Promoting positive body image in children is crucial for their overall well-being. Here are some ways parents can support their children’s body image:
- Encourage a healthy and balanced perspective: Emphasize that bodies come in different shapes and sizes and that what matters most is being healthy, strong, and taking care of oneself. Avoid making negative comments about your own body or others’ appearances.
- Promote a positive self-image: Help children develop a positive self-image by focusing on their strengths, talents, and qualities beyond physical appearance. Encourage them to pursue activities they enjoy and provide praise for their efforts and achievements.
- Foster a healthy relationship with food: Encourage balanced eating habits, emphasizing the importance of nourishing the body rather than restrictive diets or body weight.
- Media literacy and critical thinking: Teach children to critically evaluate media messages about beauty and body ideals. Discuss the unrealistic nature of many images portrayed in the media and help them understand that these images are often manipulated and do not represent reality. For teens with their own social media accounts, provide information about the value of following users/accounts that feature diverse bodies and appearances. If we do not see ourselves represented positively given the lens we have to view society, we can forget that we belong and are beautiful, too. With social media, who we follow can facilitate the adjustment of our lens.
- Focus on inner qualities and values: Help children understand that their worth is not solely based on their appearance. Emphasize qualities such as kindness, empathy, resilience, and intelligence.
- Be a positive role model: Demonstrate a healthy body image by modeling self-acceptance and self-care. Speak kindly about your own body and avoid negative body talk or engaging in weight-focused conversations.
- Open and supportive communication: Create a safe space where children can openly discuss their feelings and concerns about their bodies. Listen actively and validate their emotions, offering support.
- Teach body autonomy and consent: Empower children to make decisions about their own bodies and respect their boundaries. Reinforce the importance of consent and bodily autonomy in all aspects of their lives.
It’s important to note that these strategies should be adapted to your child’s age and developmental stage. If you need more specific guidance or face significant challenges, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or qualified therapist.
For further reading:
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). (n.d.). 8 Ways to Promote a Positive Body Image in Children. Retrieved from https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/8-ways-promote-positive-body-image-children
- Body Positive Australia. (n.d.). Parents’ Role in Promoting Positive Body Image in Children. Retrieved from https://www.bodypositiveaustralia.com.au/parents-role-in-promoting-positive-body-image-in-children/
