Parent Wellbeing

BodyKind at Home – Why Body Image Matters for Teens

You’ve likely heard your teen say something unkind about their appearance. Maybe it’s a comment about weight, skin, height, or how they compare to others online. These moments can feel uncomfortable to respond to, but they matter.

This August, Wantirna College is taking part in BodyKind, a national initiative by the Butterfly Foundation that encourages young people to be kinder to their bodies and to each other. The goal is to create a culture where all students feel seen, respected and safe in their own skin.

Why body image matters

Almost half of Australian teenagers say they’ve avoided school or social events because of how they feel about their body. Body image concerns can affect mental health, relationships, learning and self-esteem. While social media and advertising play a role, research shows that family conversations at home can have a powerful impact, either helping or harming.

Body image isn’t about vanity

It’s common to think body image only matters for those who are “obsessed” with how they look. But in reality, body image is about the thoughts and feelings a person has about their body, and it starts forming early.

A teen with a positive body image is more likely to:

Feel confident in social situations
Make healthy choices for their body and mind
Seek support when struggling
Participate fully in school and activities

BodyKind parenting in practice

You don’t have to have it all figured out to support your child’s body image. Here are some small, meaningful ways to start:

1. Watch your own language

Avoid commenting on weight (your own or others), and try to shift praise toward effort, kindness and creativity. Teens are listening, even when it doesn’t seem like it.

2. Create food neutrality

Try not to label foods as “good” or “bad.” Help your teen understand that all foods have a place, and eating regularly supports energy, mood and learning.

3. Name body shaming when you see it

Appearance-based teasing or comments are one of the most common forms of bullying. Calling it out makes a clear statement: all bodies deserve respect.

4. Model self-compassion

Your child notices how you treat yourself. Speaking kindly to your own body can give them permission to do the same.

5. Focus on what bodies do, not just how they look

Celebrate strength, movement, expression and rest, not just image.

Looking ahead

The BodyKind message doesn’t end with one campaign. It’s something we can carry into our homes and conversations, creating a more supportive environment for young people to grow and thrive.

Want to learn more?

Visit: butterfly.org.au/resources/resources-for-parents-and-families

Watch: How to respond if a child is expressing body dissatisfaction?

The Butterfly Foundation

Do you feel like you need some support for yourself, or advice on supporting someone you care about? Call the Butterfly Foundation Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673) or visit https://butterfly.org.au/