Children who are confident and have good feelings about themselves are less likely to develop body dissatisfaction and eating disorders, so "make your home a place where bodies are appreciated for what they can do, not just how they look," Manley explained. Support from parents plays an important role in building self-esteem in children. When they feel loved, listened to, understood, and encouraged by their parents, they are more likely to feel good about themselves.
Fostering a positive, open relationship with your child is so important. "Accept your child as they are, regardless of their weight, size, or shape. Don't compare your child's height or weight to those of their siblings or others," Manley said. "Tell them you love them often and unconditionally. Remind your child you love them for who they are inside, not because of external appearances."
It's OK to make positive comments about your child's appearance as long as you balance it with emphasising other positive qualities like their kindness, empathy, sense of humour, strengths, and achievements. Compliment your child when they do kind things for themselves and others, and encourage them to speak positively about themselves, Manley said.
"Support your child's interests, even if they aren't traditional male or female activities," Manley said. Support their uniqueness and their individual choices, and celebrate their achievements. Make it clear they won't be more likable, happier, or more successful if they are a different shape, if they lose weight, or if they eat less. "Instead, help your child develop values that link personal worth to qualities such as kindness," Manley said. Teach children that everyone is unique, all bodies are different, and that's a good thing, Cadillac said.