Body image is how we feel about our bodies. Whatever their size or
weight, children can develop either a positive or negative view of their
bodies. And, body image disturbances can begin as early as preschool,
so parents and other adult role models need to play a pivotal role in
promoting a positive body image for children.
Why? Young people with a positive image of themselves feel more
comfortable and confident in their ability to succeed. They don't obsess
about calories, food or weight. And, they have the energy they need to
enjoy physical activity.
On the other hand, kids with a negative body image feel more
self-conscious, anxious and isolated. They are at greater risk for
excessive weight gain and for eating disorders.
Here are five ways you can give your child the gift of positive body image and help to prevent these problems.
Check Out Your Own Body Image Issues
Parental body image has a powerful influence on how kids feel about
their bodies. If you talk about your thighs, your latest diet or your
punishing workouts, your children will naturally absorb these negative
messages. They will begin to worry about the size of their thighs and
think they should be dieting.
Focus on Health ... Not Weight
For your kid's sake (and your own sanity), shift your focus from
weight to health. Stop obsessing about numbers on the scale and
concentrate on delicious nutrition and fun physical activity. Children
don't need to work out; they need to play with family and friends.
Children shouldn't be counting calories or restricting their intake;
they need to enjoy regular meals and learn how to make smart, tasty
snack choices.
Nutrition and fitness are great goals because they give us energy to
do all things that we want to do. Whatever our age or size, we feel
better when we take care of our bodies.
Find Physical Activities That Fit
Feeling fit, strong and capable is one aspect of positive body image.
All children need regular physical activities that they enjoy. Some
kids are natural athletes and love all sports they try. Other kids do
better at individual activities, such as walking or riding a bike. Some
may find their niche in yoga, karate or a hip-hop dance class. It
doesn't matter what kids do for physical fitness; it just matters that
they do something.
Watch Out for Bullies
Weight-related teasing is a major basis for bullying. Encourage your
school to address the issue and to support nutrition and physical
education that promotes health at every size. If you believe your child
is being bullied about his or her weight or for any other reason,
discuss your concerns directly with the school counselor or
administrator.
Myth-Busting the "Perfect Body"
Help your child become a savvy media critic by talking about what
they see on television, in magazines and online. Help them understand
that the pictures of models they see in ads may have been retouched or
otherwise manipulated to appear "perfect."
#Happychildrensday
Source: eatright.org
