APPENDIX 4 - WAYS TO PROMOTE POSITIVE BODY IMAGE IN CHILDREN

• Help children understand that people come in a variety of shapes and sizes

• Help them understand that there is not one "ideal" body shape for women or men

• Help them understand that their bodies will be changing and growing, especially during puberty

• Try to be aware of the messages you send about your own body and the comments you make about other people's bodies

• Avoid perpetuating stereotypes and prejudices

• Help children focus on what their bodies do well rather than on appearance

• Remind them of all the things they are besides a body (caring, friendly, musical, athletic)

• Teach the joy of being active - how their bodies feel and perform

• Discourage children from weighing themselves

• Never use food as a reward or withhold it as a punishment

• Help children deal with put downs and negative comments

• Celebrate diversity in weight and shape!