25: Your Kids Body Image

The Mom Bod Series

In this episode we are discussing how negative body image is affecting kids younger and younger. In a study done by “The Confidence Code,” girls’ confidence drops by 30% between the ages of 8-11 years old and that study didn’t include the impact on males, who are also being slammed by gender stereotypes and being bullied for their bodies. We explore how education and open dialogue about body inclusivity can help soften the effects of the bullying and cultural narratives that our children may receive. In our interviews we discuss specific parenting tips on how to handle these difficult situations and offer resources to help you navigate this topic.

This is such an important, under discussed topic so we are featuring two interviews today! We interview a Mama who shares her personal story of her son being bullied with sexual innuendos about his body shape and the challenges it held for her as a parent. She shares the impact on her as a mother and the mirror it held up for her own journey of body acceptance.

We interview Jessica Sanders, author of “Love Your Body,” an illustrative book for children to introduce them to the language of self-love to help build resilience while representing and celebrating diverse bodies and encouraging them to appreciate their uniqueness. Jessica explores why it is imperative for children to be introduced to a variety of body narratives and how to guide your child through beauty ideals and break the idea of a “normal body.”

Our takeaway question is: What is one way you can shift the body dialogues that you are having with even your littlest ones?

Jessica Sanders

@iamjesssanders

https://re-shape.info

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