Teaching Your Child Body Positivity

Today’s society has an image-driven culture that focuses on unrealistic standards of beauty for people of all genders, ages, and ethnicities. These standards not only have a negative impact on adults but are impacting children with alarming consequences. Eating disorders among children have increased significantly in the past 20 years. While the greatest prevalence is among adolescents ages 13 to 18, children as young as 5 years old are dieting. More than ever, it’s important to teach children how to value healthy eating and stay active while also loving their bodies. Here are some ways that you can teach your children to have a positive body image and develop healthy habits for life: Be a Role Model for Your Child Children tend to mimic the behaviors and actions of the adults around them. If children hear adults speak negatively about their own bodies, this may influence how they see themselves. To combat this, work at being the role model your children need to see. State positive things about yourself and acknowledge that your imperfections are fine. Talk with your children about body diversity and why many media images are unrealistic. If you notice that your children are struggling with body image, be that understanding person they can speak to. Change Attitudes Towards Physical Activity Instead of focusing on exercise as a way to lose weight or maintain a certain body shape, have your children consider the other ways that being active can be a positive contributi...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Children and Teens Mental Health America Parenting Publishers Self-Esteem Body Diversity body positivity Eating Disorders Exercise Healthy Eating image-driven culture Physical Activity positive body image relationship with food Source Type: blogs