Articles
Encouraging a Positive Body Image
In today’s society, children are bombarded with images of thin celebrities, reality television stars and models in magazines. They watch commercials about weight loss machines, makeup and diet pills. More and more children are becoming body conscious at a much earlier age, which can lead to the development of long term eating disorders.
Mothers are a very important role model in your child’s life, particularly when it comes to their self esteem. It is important to always portray a positive body image, even if you don’t feel too positive about your own! Make your children feel good about themselves and their bodies.
Avoid making negative comments about recent weight gain, eating too much in one sitting etc. Negative self images regarding weight and food can often lead to the development of eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia nervosa. If a child is repeatedly told they are chubby or overweight, they may begin to restrict food altogether, as a way of controlling weight gain. They may not understand the concept of ‘healthy eating’ and see restriction as their only option. Comments about a child’s eating habits may push them to start eating in private. This type of eating can develop into binge eating, counteracted by purging when the child feels guilty or not in control of their eating habits.
Many eating disorders in later life are linked to earlier issues surrounding self image and eating habits. By portraying a positive self image and educating your children about healthy eating, you can help them to develop a positive relationship with their body and with food. Set up a healthy eating patterns early on. Eat meals as a family, at the dinner table. Allow your children to prepare their own nutritious breakfasts, and help prepare healthy school lunches and family dinners. Hands on learning about healthy foods, is the best education they can get. Children need to learn to cook eventually, so allow them to help as much as they can. Encourage physical activity as a way of staying ‘fit and athletic’ and nutritious food as a way of staying ‘healthy and in good shape’.
Added to site on : Monday, 10 January 2011