What You Must Know to Help Your Child Have a Positive Body (and Self) Image

I'm not talking about having a good, attractive physique. I'm talking about helping your children to have a positive image of the body (and face) that they do have; and, therefore, a positive self-image.

We all go through this. Some of us are still going through it as adults (okay, I'm putting down the donut!). But you must realize as parents the impact that peers and society have upon our children once they become aware of their body image.

This typically begins in the teen years, when both boys and girls become more aware of their appearance. As a result, they can have a positive body image (self-image) or a negative self-image, and we as parents can help determine which way it goes.

Unfortunately, be aware that you're going up against culture and society and what TV and magazines tell us all is the "right" body, the "right" appearance. All too often, these images are unrealistic for 95 percent of the population.

Am I suggesting that we shouldn't eat healthy, or not exercise and just be satisfied with the results? No, of course not.

What I am saying is that, as parents, we should help our children develop a more complex self-image that's based not just on body image, but on such other factors as our interests, our values, our qualities, our talents, and our relationships. In other words, the "total package."

So, what can we as parents do to foster a positive self-image in our children? First, understand what your children are going through by remembering what you went through as a child. There are a lot of changes, a lot of insecurities taking place as children transition through this phase, so be supportive. Do this by providing lots of reassurance about physical features (nice smile, pretty eyes, etc.), while also emphasizing and praising other aspects of their personality, traits, qualities, interests, goals, achievements, etc.

And, remember, with all good parenting there's usually some aspect of being a good role model. So, be sure to care for and appreciate your own body and your own self-image, and this will help your children do the same.