As parents, do we know what our children really think about body image?
Each day, I am noticing more and more questions in the anonymous question box about body image, and not just from girls:
These comments worry me a lot. Let’s face it! The way we think and feel about our bodies i.e. body image can affect our self-esteem at any age and in every part of our lives, not just who we are as sexual beings. Were you aware that having a positive body image is a significant factor in developing a healthy mindset about sex?
Being confident in who you are, not just what you think and feel about your body, can help your child cope with puberty, practice body boundaries and consent, and help your child have happy, safe relationships now and as they grow. That’s a “yes” from me 👍🏻 !
How did your body image affect you as you were growing up? What do you want your kids to know and feel about their body? How can you help support your child to have a positive body image?
Our children are growing up in a different world because of the media and the internet, and as a result, are being told that their bodies are not healthy, good, important enough if they don’t look like, have, wear, or take a certain product. These messages tell children that must change (and look different) in order to be normal, setting impossible standards. Body image isn’t only shaped by the media. It’s also influenced by your family, friends, and society. I feel that most of us could benefit from looking inward and examining and adjusting our own views on our body image.
Here’s what could have helped me as I was growing up.
What is your definition of body image? I think that this is a great definition of body image.
A picture in our minds of how we think and feel about what our body looks like. It’s also about what you think others see when they look at you.
I like it because it doesn’t just focus on looks alone but also the way that we feel about our bodies. It means that the image is so much more than just being positive about what your body looks like. It’s also being confident and secure in who you are.
Reading a positive body image books can play a valuable part in fostering resilience in kids and to teach them to be media literate against some of the harmful societal messages.
Click here to find out about books to empower your whole family about body image because we all need it!! The last one is a must-read for all adults!! ‘More Than a Body’ by Lindsay and Lexie Kite (THIS BOOK IS INSPIRATIONAL).
Below are the best body positivity books we’ve compiled for your kids.
Embrace Your Body
Embrace Your Body is a book about body image and confidence written by Taryn Brumfitt and illustrated by Sinead Hanley for kids aged 3 to 7.
Liking Herself, Even on the Bad Days
This book is one of the many popular books in the American Girl series. Emotions are sometimes difficult to deal with during puberty because of all of the changes that are happening. This book is written for girls about understanding why they’re feeling like this and how to deal with those feelings.
Messages About Me: Sydney's Story
Messages About Me is one of the best books on body image written by Dina Alexander and Kyle Roberts, and illustrated by Jera Mehrdad for kids aged 9 to 12.
Your Body is Awesome
Your Body is Awesome is a book about the fact that all bodies are wonderful, no matter what. It was written by Sigrun Danielsdottir and illustrated by Bjork Bjarkadottir for kids aged 4 to 8.
Bodies are Cool
Bodies Are Cool is a picture book written by Tyler Feder for kids aged 3 to 5.
Media Muscle
Media Muscle: Body Image and the Media for Guys is a book about body image written by Lisa Cox for boys aged 12 and up.
Be Your Own Man
Boys are normally taught to act a certain way or be a certain way. This book teaches them a different lesson, something that helps them become more authentic and better versions of themselves and that they do not have to fit into the rigid stereotype of what maleness is.
The Not-So-Perfect Princess and the Not-So-Dreadful Dragon
The Not-So-Perfect Princess and the Not-So-Dreadful Dragon was written by Jayneen Sanders for kids aged 4 to 10. The author wrote this fairy tale as part of her advocacy in raising kids with empathy, kindness, and respect. A mother of 3 and and primary school teacher, she also advocates for body safety and gender equality.
More Than a Body
‘More Than a Body’ was written by Lindsay Kite and Lexie Kite, twin sisters. It was published in 2021. It aims to deconstruct the myth that that happiness, health, and ability to be loved are dependent on how we look.
Does My Bum Look Big In This Ad?
Does My Bum Look Big In This Ad? is a book about body image written by Lisa Cox for kids aged 9 to 12.
Different – A Great Thing to Be!
Different – A Great Thing to Be is a book about being unique and special just the way that you are and is written by Heather Avis and illustrated by Sarah Mensinga for kids aged 3 to 7.
Love Your Body
Imagine a world where every girl grew up loving their body the way it is, who embrace who they are, imperfections and all – and knowing that bodies are so much more than what they look like.
We want our children to have a healthy body image, and this means understanding that bodies can naturally be different shapes and sizes. Recognising the positive aspects about their bodies. This can challenge the ‘ideal’ body presented in the media and ultimately reinforce the important message that the number one priority should be to stay healthy, not be a certain body weight and size.
Ultimately, we all want our children to not only accept and respect their own bodies, but also respect others for who they are rather than make judgements based on appearance. We can teach and model the valuing of qualities such as kindness, generosity, empathy, and inclusion.
As Dr. Seuss quotes: “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is You-er than You.”
