In this edition around BODY IMAGE AND EATING DISORDERS, we’ll look at:

• What’s The Issue? Understanding Body Image – how children develop body image and why it matters.
• Building Body Confidence – tips for nurturing positive body image at home.
• Encouraging Healthy Habits – promoting balanced attitudes toward food and activity.
• Warning Signs to Be Aware Of – knowing when to seek further support.
• Common Types of Eating Disorders – recognising specific eating disorders and some signs of concern in young children.
• Resources and Signposts – trusted sources for further help and guidance.

WHAT’S THE ISSUE? UNDERSTANDING BODY IMAGE

Children are naturally curious about their bodies and begin developing their self-image early. Young children may start to notice differences in appearance between people and begin to develop opinions about “ideal” body types. While many of these thoughts are natural, it’s important to encourage healthy self-perception to prevent the development of a negative body image and unhealthy habits.

There are some key differences between body image and eating disorders, so it’s important for parents to understand these so that they can provide help and support which is effective:

• Body Image: Body image is how we see our own bodies and how we think others see us. Young children may start to develop their own body image early, and this can be influenced by family, friends, media, and societal messages. Feeling good about themselves and understanding that bodies come in all shapes and sizes can foster confidence, self-respect and mental wellbeing.
• Eating Disorders: While eating disorders are more common in older children and teens, early signs of disordered eating can appear in primary-aged children, particularly if they are overly concerned with weight or food. Early conversations and healthy habits can reduce the likelihood of developing harmful patterns.

BUILDING BODY CONFIDENCE

Creating a positive environment around body image at home can make a lasting impact. By teaching children to celebrate their bodies, we can help them feel good about who they are. Here are some strategies to get started:

• Emphasise Individuality: Explain that everyone’s body is unique, and that’s something to celebrate. Reinforce that health, kindness, and confidence are what make people beautiful, not specific shapes or sizes.
• Model Body Positivity: Children look to adults for cues and pick up on how parents talk about their own bodies. Use positive language where you can, and talk about health, strength, and self-acceptance. Avoid critical comments (about yourself or others) regarding weight or appearance.
• Choose Your Language Carefully: Instead of talking about “good” or “bad” foods, focus on the idea of “everyday” foods (like fruits and vegetables) and “sometimes” foods (like sweets or treats) to create a balanced mindset around eating.
• Address Media and Peer Influence: When watching TV or seeing images in the media, reflect on how these can be edited or enhanced. Discuss how social media often shows unrealistic images of people and remind them that people in real life look different. Encourage them to appreciate real, diverse body types.
• Focus on Abilities Over Appearance: Reinforce that bodies are for doing things we love – running, dancing, playing, and creating! Praise your child’s talents and strengths rather than appearance.

ENCOURAGING HEALTHY HABITS

Building a foundation of healthy habits around food and activity sets the stage for a positive relationship with health, which children can then carry with them as they grow into adults.

Here are some ways to support these positive habits:

• Make Meals a Fun Family Activity: Involve children in making meals together and talk about how different foods help our bodies grow, give us energy, and keep us strong. It’s a great way to foster curiosity and a balanced approach to eating.
• Enjoy Physical Activities Together: Encourage physical activities that your child enjoys, like dancing, playing outside, or riding a bike. Show them that moving their bodies is about feeling good and having fun, not about changing their appearance.
• Try to be Positive About Food: Children don’t need to think about “dieting”. Focus instead on balanced meals and enjoying food without guilt. Frame food as fuel for doing the things they love.
• Encourage Self-Care as Part of Wellbeing: Let children see how self-care is part of daily life, whether it’s taking a relaxing walk, reading together, or practicing mindfulness. These habits can build emotional resilience and create a positive relationship with self-care.

WARNING SIGNS TO BE AWARE OF

While it’s natural for children to be curious or sometimes make comments about appearance, certain behaviours may indicate the need for additional support. Here are some early signs to keep in mind:

• Increased Self-Criticism: If your child often makes negative comments about their body or compares themselves to others, it may signal low self-esteem.
• Preoccupation with Weight or Appearance: Repeated concerns about body size, weight, or appearance in young children can sometimes indicate emerging issues with self-image.
• Changes in Eating Patterns: If you notice your child avoiding certain foods, becoming overly restrictive, or talking frequently about “fat” or “skinny”, consider having a gentle, open conversation with them without judgment or pressure.
• Avoidance of Social Activities: If a child who once loved social activities or play, starts withdrawing or appears low on energy, it may relate to concerns about body image or low self-esteem.

If these behaviours persist or intensify, consider reaching out to your child’s school pastoral team, GP, or a child mental health professional for guidance and support.

COMMON TYPES OF EATING DISORDERS

Although eating disorders may be more associated with teens, some children can begin to show early signs of unhealthy eating habits or body dissatisfaction in primary school. Eating disorders are complex conditions involving physical, emotional, and social factors. Below is an overview of some of the most common eating disorders that parents may want to understand:

1. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): Often linked to sensory sensitivities, ARFID involves a limited diet or refusal to eat certain foods due to texture, taste, or fear of adverse reactions.
2. Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa: These disorders are less common in younger children, but early signs may include extreme preoccupation with weight or body shape, strict food rules, and avoidance of meals.
3. Binge Eating: Characterised by eating large quantities of food in a short time and often feeling a lack of control. While more common in older children, young children may also develop similar unhealthy eating patterns.

Understanding these early indicators can help parents support healthy attitudes around food and body image from a young age. If you’re concerned, it’s always helpful to speak with a healthcare provider to understand more.

SUPER RESOURCES FOR YOU USE AND TO SHARE

• BEAT – Information, support and guidance about eating disorders – The UK’s Eating Disorder Charity – Beat
• Young Minds – Information and advice with how to support your child – Eating Disorders and Problems | Parent Guide | YoungMinds
• NHS: Change4Life – Ideas, activities guidance and recipes to support healthy eating – Healthier Families – Home – NHS
• Mental Health Foundation – an informative article – Body image in childhoodYoung Minds Parent Helpline – 0808 802 5544 (confidential advice, support and guidance)