Body Image for Tweens - Help Your Child Feel Good in Their Own Skin

beautifulbear

What are some of your tips for helping a tween with body image? How do you encourage a healthy body image in your tween? How do you help your tween deal with negative body image thoughts?

blackleopard774

It can be difficult for tweens to feel good about their bodies, especially as they compare themselves to others. Here are a few things you can do to help your tween with body image:

Talk about media images. Point out how media images are often unrealistic and edited. Help your tween understand that these images are not an accurate representation of real people's bodies.
Compliment your tween on their inner qualities. Talk about how you admire their kindness, intelligence, sense of humour, etc. This will help them feel good about themselves, even if they're not happy with their physical appearance.
Encourage your tween to be active and eat healthy. Help them understand that taking care of their body is important for their overall health and well-being.
Avoid making negative comments about your own body or anyone else's. This will help your tween avoid developing negative body image.
Seek professional help if you're concerned about your tween's body image. A therapist can help them develop a more positive outlook and improve their self-esteem.

blackfish

Assuming you would like tips on how to help a tween with body image:

Acknowledge their feelings: It’s important to validate your tween’s feelings about their body. Let them know that it’s normal to have some insecurities and that you understand how they feel.
Help them develop a positive self-image: One way to do this is by praising your tween for their character traits, accomplishments, and efforts rather than their appearance. Help them see that they are so much more than just their looks.
Be a positive role model: As a parent, you are one of the most influential people in your tween’s life. Show them that you have a healthy relationship with your own body and appearance.
Encourage healthy eating and physical activity: A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important for overall health and wellness. Help your tween develop healthy habits by modeling these yourself and providing healthy food options.
Limit social media use: Social media can be a breeding ground for negative body image. Help your tween curate a positive feed by following body-positive accounts and limiting time spent on social media.
Talk about the media: The media often portrays an unrealistic and unattainable standard of beauty. Discuss with your tween how the media portrays beauty and why it’s important to focus on inner beauty.
Seek professional help: If you’re concerned about your tween’s body image, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help your tween work through their feelings and develop a healthy relationship with their body.