FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE

Body Image

Your body image is how you think and feel about your body, and what you imagine it looks like. This may have nothing to do with your actual appearance. Poor body image can have a range of negative effects, including disordered eating, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

There are many ways that parents can foster positive body image and strong self-esteem in their children. If you are at all concerned about your child’s body image, self-esteem or eating behaviours, consult with your doctor for information and referral.

Be a good role model

The most influential role model in your child’s life is you.  Parents can encourage their children to feel good about themselves by showing them how it’s done. For example: 

• Children learn eating behaviours from their parents, so make sure you include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low fat dairy products and cereals in the family’s diet. Go easy on takeaway, fried foods and sugary snacks. 
• Don’t crash diet. Don’t encourage your child to crash diet either. Studies show that many young people think that crash dieting is a harmless and effective way to lose weight. Talk to your child about the dangers of crash dieting. 
• Accept your own body size and shape. Don’t complain about ‘ugly’ body parts or, at least, don’t share your opinions with your child. 
• Accept other people’s body sizes and shapes. Don’t put a lot of emphasis on physical appearances or your child will too. Instead, try to talk to your child about all the different aspects that make up a person, such as personality, skills and outlook on life. 
• Exercise regularly. Have at least one family activity per week that involves some kind of exercise; for example, bush-walking, dancing, playing backyard cricket, going for a walk or swimming. 
• Be critical of media messages and images that promote thinness. Encourage your child to question and challenge Western society’s narrow ‘beauty ideal’.

Help them feel confident about themselves

A strong sense of identity and self-worth are crucial to your child’s self-esteem. Suggestions include: 

• Encourage problem solving, expression of opinions and individuality. 
• Teach your child various coping strategies to help them deal with life’s challenges. 
• Allow them to say ‘no’. Encourage them to be assertive if they feel they have been mistreated. 
• Listen to their concerns about body shape and appearance. Puberty, in particular, can be a worrying time. Reassure your child that their physical changes are normal and that everyone develops at different times and rates. 
• Don’t tease them about their weight, body shape or looks. Even seemingly friendly nicknames can be hurtful if they focus on some aspect of the child’s appearance. 
• Place value on their achievements, such as talents, skills and school grades. 
• Make your child feel they have an important role in the family; for example, give them age-appropriate household tasks. Tell them what a valuable contribution they make to the running of the house.

Remember - You are the most influential role model in your child’s life, so lead by example.