Kids learn best when taught by example. How you feel about your own body will determine how your child feels about his. Set a positive body image for yourself and for your kids to follow. If you talk about your thighs, your strict diet or punishing workouts, your children will naturally imbibe the same and think about dieting. Instead, tell your children how strong your thighs are and how they help in hiking up a mountain!

Shift the focus from weight to health as body weight is just one of the factors that influences someone’s overall health. Children don’t need to work out, they need to play and enjoy with their family and friends. Instead of counting calories, they need to have balanced regular meals and pick smart, delicious snack choices.

All children need physical activity to engage in regularly. While some thrive in all sports, others are more into individual activities like biking or walking. Some also find their niche in yoga, karate, or dance. Encourage your child to participate in such activities.

Teasing because of one’s weight is a major aspect of bullying. Encourage your child’s school to address the issue and support physical education that promotes health at every size. If you believe your child is being bullied, discuss your concerns directly with the school counsellor or administrator.

Children get very inundated by what they see on media. Tell your child that the pictures of models and celebrities they come across, may have been retouched to appear and be labelled ‘perfect’. Explain to them there is no such thing as a perfect body and good hygiene and physical fitness count as perfect health!