Mothers play an important role when it comes to the upbringing of their daughters. Body image has become a huge concern among women in this day and age, especially due to the persistent influence of the media on what’s deemed beautiful and what’s not. There are many factors that can influence a young woman’s self-image and while the media is considered the main culprit, a mother is still the biggest influence in a young girl’s life. Here’s a few ways that you can improve your daughter’s body image and self-esteem.
Connect with your daughter
The first step to helping your child build confidence about herself is to encourage communication. Children transition into adolescence as early as 8 years old, and as they go further down the adolescent path, it will become more difficult to establish a connection with your daughter, which is essential throughout her teenage years. It all starts with casual chit-chat about her day at school. Children open up to their parents at an early age,so the more you know about what goes on, the more you’ll be able to to help your daughter. (Source)
Be a role-model
Children generally adopt the habits of their parents, so use this opportunity to become a positive role model to your daughter. Keep away from making negative remarks or laments about your body or appearance as it will influence your child as well.
Help them understand the concept of beauty
Girls are more fragile when it comes their looks and appearance. At an early age, help your daughter understand the concept of beauty, where it is the character and spirit that makes one beautiful, Not jewelry or expensive clothing. Also, give them words of encouragement and tell them that they’re beautiful no matter what anyone says.
Don’t let them diet
There’s a few reasons why children should not diet. Firstly, children require essential nutrients from a balanced diet for healthy growth, and going on a crash diet may affect their growth spurts. Diets are also not recommended as they may just lead them to gain more weight over time, and can even lead girls to develop serious eating disorders. If your child feels ‘overweight’ and insists on a diet, take it into consideration and plan their meals accordingly, without cutting out any essentials out of their diet.
Be open
Giving your child the opportunity to freely express their opinions and thoughts on subjects considered to be taboo like sex, will give her the knowledge she needs to protect herself. We live in a modern society where these topics are stamped everywhere from television to magazines, so your daughter may have an idea or two about these things. As a parent, clear the air and explain these issues to your daughter so you can protect her from a path of ignorance and shame.
