Healthy and Confident Conversations

By Tanya Yadav in Blog, Body

Parents should start these conversations as soon as possible, as early as toddlerhood. It’s important for children to develop a healthy body image and to understand the importance of self-care. Parents should avoid using language that is critical of their children’s bodies and focus instead on emphasizing the importance of taking care of their bodies. Furthermore, parents should emphasize that there is no “perfect” body and that everyone’s body is unique and beautiful.

1. Discuss Diversity: Talk about how everyone’s body is unique and different. Point out examples of diversity in your own family and in the media that you consume.
2. Encourage Positive Self-Talk: Start by teaching your children to talk positively about their own bodies. Encourage them to recognize and appreciate the things their body can do, rather than focusing on physical appearances.
3. Explain Media Images: Teach your children to be critical of the media and its unrealistic portrayal of beauty. Discuss why many images are altered or touched up to create an unrealistic ideal.
4. Emphasize Health: Focus on the importance of health rather than size or weight. Talk about healthy habits, such as eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.
5. Talk About Feelings: Help your kids understand their emotions by talking about how they feel when they look in the mirror. Encourage them to identify and express their feelings in healthy ways.
6. Set a Good Example: Model healthy body image habits yourself. Avoid making critical comments about your own body and emphasize the importance of self-care.

By discussing physical health, acceptance, and respect in a respectful and open way, parents can help their children learn to value and appreciate their bodies, and in turn, create a healthier and more confident generation.