At an age when girls hold fantasy pop star Hannah Montana as a role model, preteen and teenage girls are often overly critical of their bodies.
“To them, appearance is everything,” says Elissa Gittes, MD, adolescent medicine specialist at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. “As girls mature, they fill out. Even if they’re not overweight, they often think they are because they don't look like the characters portrayed in movies and on TV.”
Parents can provide guidance in helping girls (and boys, too) achieve healthy body images. “Be alert to how your child acts,” suggests Dr. Gittes. “Watch for slouching shoulders. Does she look at you when she talks? Does she try to hide behind dark, loose-fitting clothes?”
To help your child understand her feelings:
- Acknowledge your child’s self-perception by accepting that she may not feel good about herself. At the same time, remind her how much you love her. A spontaneous hug goes a long way toward making you both feel good.
- Encourage her to talk. She may feel more comfortable talking with the pediatrician, a valued teacher or a school counselor.
“Give your children confidence by spending more time praising them for their actions, such as doing well on a school project or playing with a younger sibling,” says Elissa Gittes, MD.
Avoid being self-critical. Children pick up those cues, warns Dr. Gittes.
Turn activity into a fun, family affair:
- Choose a nearby trail and plan a day for hiking or bike riding (always wear your helmets).
- Sign up for yoga classes or ballroom dancing. Take swimming lessons.
Hint: Promote healthful eating and good conversation at the family dinner table. “The dinner table is a great place to talk to your children,” says Dr. Gittes. “And, it’s where you can demonstrate the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats — all of which will help make your kids feel better about themselves.”