Though you may not know it, many kids have negative body images. It might start as early as kindergarten, and there can even be problems in Pre-K or in child care or in child care. It is important that parents learn as much as possible about this disturbing trend-and what they can do to help.
How Kids Feel
Many kids, because of what they hear or see, have negative body images. They think that they need to be thinner, prettier, bigger, taller, or somehow different from what they are. They compare themselves to other kids, to their parents, to people on TV, and they begin to develop unhealthy ideas about what they should look like.
This mentality is starting younger and younger. Even young kids in child care or Pre-K may want to look a certain way or dress a certain way. You child may say things like:
- I’m too fat/thin.
- I wish my hair was blonder/browner/longer/shorter.
- Only skinny people are on TV.
- Only big guys play football.
- My muscles are too small.
- I want to be skinny like you (or someone else).
- I want to be big like you.
- I don’t want to look like you when I grow up.
How Parents Can Help
Be careful not to say things that could make your child think that looking a certain way is good or bad. Don’t comment on how gorgeous someone is because of how thin she is. Don’t refer to fat people as ugly. Set a good example in how you eat and how you look at yourself. Ways you can do this include:
- Eating healthy meals and snacks.
- Exercising.
- Complimenting yourself.
- Emphasize being healthy, not a certain size or weight.
From the time your kids start child care, they are subjected to peer pressure. It can get worse as they grow. It’s up to you to be a good role model and provide positive reinforcement about their-and your-body image.
