A Child's Self Image

by: Sue DeFiore

With all the focus on weight today it is not surprising that
children are starting to look at their bodies at earlier
ages. Children as young as 7 years of age are asking parents
about their bodies. Where are they getting it from? Well, I
would imagine television, magazines and the internet are
some of the places. However, as we were all children once,
it is also coming from other children. I can still remember
well kids making fun of other children. While I never
participated in it, I was a recipient of it, so I know how
it feels. While mine wasn't weight related, it still
hurts. From what I am seeing and reading it is even nastier
and more prevalent in our schools today.

So, what do you say to your child when they ask you if you
think they are overweight, fat, or whatever adjective was
used by another child when taunting them. As hard as it is,
you will need to convey to your child that everyone is
different. How we look and grow will depend on how we take
care of our bodies. Explain to them how body types are
dependent upon family, eating habits and physical activity.
Also be sure to tell them that they are and will be growing
and changing until their teens. If you have pictures of
yourself or others in childhood and then adulthood show them
those pictures to give them an idea of changes that occur.

Please be sure to talk to your child and do so carefully and
seriously about this. It is very very important that your
child realize he must eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, to
take his/her vitamins and to drink their milk. Don't
just ignore this discussion. Children are growing up faster
and faster today and becoming aware much earlier in life of
their body image. How children and adults view themselves
is one of the classic signs of anorexia and other eating
disorders.

If you feel you are not qualified to handle their questions,
please consult a professional to do so.

Copyright 2005, DeFiore Enterprises

About The Author

Sue DeFiore

Introducing Keep Kids Fit: A How To Guide For Setting Up And
Running Your Own Business In One Year Or Less! Solutions
for parents who want healthy children in body and mind! Our
motto, "Eat Healthy, Live Healthy, Help Keep Kids
Fit" Keep Kids Fit asks the question: Do You Want
To Help Foster A Healthy Lifestyle For Your Child! If you
answered yes, then visit our web blog at:
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website today at: http://www.keepkidsfit.com

suedefiore@sbcglobal.net

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