Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds 

Focusing on Well-Being, Not Weight

Children hear and see many messages on health, body shape, and size.

Negative messages that focus on weight can harm children’s self-esteem, and lead to poor body image and unhealthy behaviours, such as restricting their food intake.

Parents can play an active role in helping their child have a healthy body and healthy mind by taking the focus off weight. Below are ways to shift the focus from weight to an overall focus on health and mental well-being.

Active Living 

Being active helps build self-confidence, relieves stress, improves sleep and is a fun social activity.

Balanced & Healthy Eating 

Eating regular and balanced meals and snacks provide your child’s body and brain with the energy they need to stay focused, be active, and be mentally and physically healthy.

Mental Well-Being & Stress Management 

Talking about and role modelling mental well-being helps to build your child’s life skills and resiliency.

Rethinking Compliments 

When giving your child a compliment, try using adjectives that focus on positive traits other than being beautiful or handsome – for example: smart, strong, charismatic, ambitious, sensible, practical, hardworking, or clever.

By adopting these strategies, parents can foster a nurturing environment that prioritizes their child’s overall health and mental well-being. This holistic approach not only supports a positive body image but also equips children with the confidence and resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges, helping children to thrive by celebrating their unique qualities and encouraging a balanced and healthy lifestyle.