We Interrupt This Blog Post

For an important request.

I need to interview three parents for ideas on how they present and foster positive self image in their children, for publication in a magazine.

If you can answer this question, leave me a comment and I'll email you back post haste.  I'm coming up empty, so if you think AT ALL that you can help, please do so!

Anyone who has dealt with anorexia or bulimia is also needed.

Thanks!

Comments

[Kyla]

I'm willing to talk about it. I have ideas, right or wrong. If there is no one else better me than no one - right!?

[Michelle]

Hi Carmen, I'd be happy to help you out. I just completed two articles for magazines and I was BEGGING people to let me interview them. So if I help you, my next time will be easier, right?

BTW, I'm a mom to three and stepmom to another three. I'm very concerned about my four (very different) girls having a good self-image.

[Brandy]

I worry about my 13 year old and her body image. I think she has a good one, because we stress that what is inside is more important than what's on the outside, and she's conservative in manner and dress. However, she's a tomboy and isn't into many girly-girl things yet and I wonder how that may change once she pays more attention. I can't wait to read your article.

[Emily]

Hi Carmen,

I'm not a blogger but I read your blog regularly.

If you are interested in the perspective of someone with YOUNG girls, I'm game.

I have twin girl toddlers and I'm already concerned with making sure they have a good self image. While they don't grasp big concepts, they definitely understand what we (and those around them) are saying.

As will all other good habits I'd like to instill ... I don't think it's ever too early to start filling their little minds with positive things :)

-Emily

[Headless Mom]

I emphasize that all of us are different. My boys couldn't be more different in the body department. The younger is 30 lb. heavier than his older brother! Each of them has different strengths and interests and that neither is better or worse than the other-just different. The uniqueness is what makes each of us/them special.

I'd be happy to help further! Let me know.

[Bobbie]

My now 18-year old son lost 35 pounds in three months when he was in fifth grade because a kid called him "fat". It was tremendously difficult finding help for (1) an 11-year old; and (2) an 11-year old BOY.

Let me know if I can help.

[Beth]

Hi Carmen,
I have 6 kids also (5 boys, 1 girl). Not only are they different body types, but also so different in interests. My husband and I both struggle with our weight, but have been making great strides, although both of us had very negative body images from our own families. We have made a conscience effort to NOT to that to our kids. So far, I believe it works. Our kids have confidence to spare!!! Maybe we should bring them down a notch ;)! I'd be happy to be in your research article.

[Sarah]

Ooh, ooh, I don't have any interest in being interviewed, but have lots of thoughts on the subject. I have 1 girl, 3 boys, and am firmly in the "teach a child competence, you teach them confidence" camp. My 13 year old is a fantastic babysitter, rock climber, student and cook, among other traits; my 9 year old chops vegetables with a sharp knife regularly for dinner prep. I've worked hard to raise self-reliant, capable kids ( who fail frequently along the way). We talk about nutrition and strength, and have set goals in "lifetime"sports for all of them. We have a long way to go, and some terrible examples to escape from in the family/gene pool, but I'm optimistic about their abilities. My husband and I adhere to the "we're raising grown-ups, not children" philosophy, which grounds many of our practices.

[Jess]

I don't think that I would have anything to add to this. I am very fortunate that my son and step daughter, who have seen me super thin, and right now at my highest weight, and they do not see me as a different person. They do not worry about what they look like, and both of them have a wonderful attitude of "I am me, I like me, if you dont like me for what I am, then keep on walking" I hope that they keep up this attitude for the remainder of their teenage years.

[Cookie]

I dont' know how much help I'd be, but I did struggle with anorexia in high school for a while.

I have 2 girls 5 and 2. We work very hard on letting them be who they are, encouraging them to allow themselves to be different, to be competent and compassionate at the same time and teaching them to be healthy and keep things in balance.

[Tiffany]

My kids are still really young (6 and 2) but I have been shocked when my 6 year old will come home and say his clothes are not cool enough etc, so we really truly just try to tell our children how beautiful they are inside and out, So far it seems to be working.

[Kathleen]

Hey Carmen, you know several thoughts went through my mind. I was very thin as a teen and had a sister that was heavy up until her pre-teen years. The roles have reversed now-- I am as heavy as I was pregnant with my last child (#4). I still think that I have "reverse anorexia" in that I look in the mirror and see the woman my husband married. It isn't until I fold my jeans and think, "who the hell wears these?" that reality hits. My sister who runs marathons and is very fit and too thin-- still struggles with self image. I don't know if you ever kick that demon.

My daughter, now 18, grew up seeing both of us struggle with body image and just seemed to pick the best parts --thank goodness.

[Michael]

Many teens and kids struggle with self image because of the images given by tv and magazines.

[Children Physical Fitness]

The image consciousness has been increasing a lot among the teens especially. Sometimes they are leading to certain diseases also.

Jane

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