Episode 39 - Does your body image impact your children?

Such an emotive topic.

I have broken this down in this episode and given some tips on what body image is,  how to overcome negative body image and what you can do about it.  

To help your children (and yourself) its about leading by example - heres how: 

1. Reflect on your own relationship about your body
2. Encourage your child to speak about what they think, and how they feel about their bodies
3. Be aware of the effects of negative body talk around your children about your own body or the bodies of others. Don’t complain about body parts you are dissatisfied about with your child or anyone for that matter.  
4. Accept that bodies come in all shapes and sizes and celebrate body diversity. Avoid all the focus being on personal appearance and talk about the other things that make up a person
5. Be aware of societal ideals that promote thinness or muscularity. Encourage your child to be media savvy and  challenge the western narrows view of beauty or attractiveness.
6. Try to avoid labelling foods as ‘good’ or bad’ instead focus on the nourishment that food provides and encourage flexibility in eating patterns. Assigning moral value to food which can create shame and guilt. 
7. Avoid talking about diets, engaging in diets and never encourage your child to diet regardless of body shape or size or weight. This can promote an eating disorder.
8. Promote eating for nourishment and pleasure
9. Engage in physical activity and keep the focus on fun and enjoyment.

Enjoy and thank you so much for listening.