• Understanding Body Image Development

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Body image doesn’t just suddenly appear; it starts developing early in childhood, influenced by what kids see and hear around them. Often, it’s family, media, and their environment that shape these early perceptions. Children pick up messages not only from what we say but from how we behave and treat our own bodies. The more we can model acceptance and a healthy relationship with our bodies, the better. Talking positively about all body shapes and emphasizing that every body has value can make a big difference in helping kids grow up with a healthier outlook.

• Encouraging Open Conversations Early

Dr. Robyn Silverman: It’s essential that parents and caregivers start these body image conversations early. If we set the example by appreciating different body shapes, kids are more likely to grow up with that same acceptance. I often tell parents that children absorb messages about body image from a young age, so the more we reinforce positive ideas, the more secure they’ll feel.

• Introducing Media Literacy

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Media has a huge influence on how we view our bodies, and kids aren’t immune to it. Teaching them to be media literate—knowing that many images are edited or staged—helps them separate reality from fantasy. We can tell kids, ‘Not everything you see is as it seems,’ and explain that images in media are often altered, setting unrealistic expectations that even the models themselves can’t meet.

• Navigating Puberty Changes

Dr. Robyn Silverman: Talking to kids about puberty without making them feel embarrassed or ashamed is important. Kids need to know that physical changes are normal, and everyone’s body develops differently. Helping them understand and accept these changes can ease a lot of the stress that comes with puberty.

• Modeling Positive Self-Talk and Body Language

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Our children are watching how we talk about our own bodies. If we’re constantly self-critical, they may learn to be self-critical too. Showing compassion for ourselves and embracing our unique traits can teach kids that self-acceptance is okay. We have to be mindful of the messages we send because they’re taking notes.

• Focusing on Health Over Appearance

Dr. Robyn Silverman: Body image should be about how healthy and strong we feel, not just how we look. If we can shift the focus to what our bodies can do—like playing, running, or dancing—it becomes about valuing our health over just appearance. This perspective encourages kids to appreciate their bodies for their abilities rather than their looks.

• Counteracting Stereotypes Around Weight

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Kids hear a lot of stereotypes about weight, but these stereotypes aren’t true. Health and weight don’t always go hand in hand. We need to make sure they know that people come in all shapes and sizes, and that’s okay. By teaching kids to appreciate diversity in body types, we’re helping break down those biases.

• Responding to Negative Comments About Body Image

Dr. Charlotte Markey: When kids hear negative comments about their bodies, it’s important to give them tools to respond. Role-playing scenarios can help them feel prepared and teach them assertive responses. This approach empowers kids to stand up against body shaming and reinforces that they deserve respect no matter what.

• Building a Body-Positive Home Environment

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Creating a positive home environment means focusing on the whole person, not just appearance. It’s about celebrating what our bodies can do—finding joy in movement, enjoying good food, and feeling good about ourselves without constantly focusing on image. That way, children understand they’re valued for who they are.

• Navigating Peer Influence on Body Image

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Friends are a huge influence, especially as kids get older. Peer pressure is real, and kids tend to adopt attitudes from their friends, which can either reinforce positive or negative body image. Teaching them to choose friends who respect and celebrate body diversity is a powerful way to keep those influences positive.

• Encouraging Self-Compassion in Body Image

Dr. Robyn Silverman: Teaching self-compassion is one of the best things we can do for kids. When they learn to be kind to themselves, especially on difficult days, they build resilience. Self-compassion helps children to see that they don’t need to be perfect—they’re allowed to have flaws and to love themselves despite those flaws.

• Recognizing Body Image Struggles Throughout Life

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Body image issues don’t necessarily go away with age. They can persist, and addressing them early helps build resilience that can last a lifetime. We should let children know that everyone faces body image challenges at some point and that it’s okay to feel this way. That way, they know they’re not alone.

• Practical Steps for Building Body Confidence

Dr. Robyn Silverman: What are some practical ways to help kids build confidence? Recognizing their unique abilities and accomplishments is a start. By celebrating their skills and achievements, we’re showing them that their worth isn’t tied to looks alone.

• Addressing Social Media’s Impact on Body Image

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Social media creates constant comparisons, especially for teens. Many images they see online don’t reflect reality, but kids may not realize that. Teaching them to question what they see and to remember that much of it is altered can help protect them from body dissatisfaction.

• Highlighting Inner Qualities Over Appearance

Dr. Robyn Silverman: When we talk about inner beauty and qualities like kindness, strength, and curiosity, we’re teaching kids that these qualities matter more than appearance. Reinforcing that inner beauty is more valuable helps kids grow up with a deeper sense of self-worth.

• Preparing Kids for Real-World Body Image Challenges

Dr. Charlotte Markey: We can’t shield kids from every negative influence, but we can equip them with the tools they need. By fostering resilience and self-confidence, we’re helping them stand strong against pressures and unrealistic standards they’ll face in school or social settings.

• Promoting a Growth Mindset for Body Acceptance

Dr. Robyn Silverman: Teaching kids that body image is a journey and not a fixed part of their identity can help them navigate their feelings more easily. When they know it’s something they can work on, they’re more likely to have a positive outlook and to grow in acceptance.

• Celebrating the Diversity of Body Shapes and Sizes

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Body diversity is beautiful, and no two people are meant to look the same. Embracing this idea promotes acceptance, helping kids understand that they don’t need to conform to any one ideal. Showing them real-life examples reinforces that diversity is both normal and valuable.

• Recognizing the Power of Supportive Communities

Dr. Robyn Silverman: Building a support system of friends, family, and mentors who value body positivity can act as a buffer against negative influences. Kids with strong support networks are more likely to stay grounded and maintain a healthy self-image.

• Taking Action Against Unrealistic Standards

Dr. Charlotte Markey: Teaching kids to challenge unrealistic standards gives them a sense of agency. When they learn to question what they see and to stand up for body positivity, they’re better equipped to resist pressures and stay true to themselves.