Summer, Body Image, and the Messages Kids Hear
Summer is here. Along with beach trips, pool days, and family vacations often comes an increased focus on “summer bodies,” fad diets, and pressure to look a certain way.
While these conversations may seem harmless, children are often listening more closely than we realize. Comments about dieting, avoiding certain foods, weight loss goals, or feeling uncomfortable in a swimsuit can leave a lasting impression on young minds.
Kids hear messages about body image from many places—friends, school, social media, television, and advertising. As parents, caregivers, and trusted adults, we have an opportunity to help shape a healthier and more positive perspective.
Here are three ways to support positive body image and a healthy relationship with food this summer.
1. Avoid Labeling Foods as “Good” or “Bad”
It can be tempting to categorize foods into “healthy” and “unhealthy” categories, but this approach can create confusion and guilt around eating.
Children are naturally intuitive eaters, but they also tend to gravitate toward sweet and fun foods. Rather than labeling foods as off-limits, try teaching balance.
Helpful messages might include:
- All foods can fit into a healthy lifestyle.
- Some foods help our bodies grow and stay strong.
- Some foods are enjoyed for fun and celebration.
- Variety is important.
When foods are constantly labeled as “bad” or forbidden, children may become more preoccupied with them. Over time, these labels can contribute to feelings of guilt or shame around eating.
Instead, aim for a neutral approach to food whenever possible.
2. Keep Conversations About Bodies Positive
Children pay attention to how adults talk about their own bodies and the bodies of others.
Try to avoid conversations about:
- Wanting to lose weight
- Feeling unhappy with your appearance
- Dieting or restricting food
- Comparing bodies
Instead, focus on what bodies can do rather than how they look.
Talk about:
- Strength
- Energy
- Health
- Growth
- Taking care of ourselves
One of the most important things adults can do is avoid speaking negatively about another person’s appearance. Children learn from what we model.
Bodies naturally come in different shapes and sizes, just as people have different heights, hair colors, personalities, and abilities. Helping children understand and respect body diversity can support a healthier body image for years to come.
As psychologist Wayne Fleisig, Ph.D., shared in an article for Parents magazine:
“Kids don’t automatically pick up how to tie their shoes or brush their teeth; we have to teach them. The same is true for the values we want them to learn.”
Positive body image is something that can be taught through small, ongoing conversations and everyday examples.
3. Focus on Movement for Fun, Not Weight Loss
Exercise is often discussed as a way to burn calories or change body size, but children benefit most when movement is associated with fun, health, and enjoyment.
Try talking about physical activity as a way to:
- Build strong muscles and bones
- Support heart health
- Improve mood and energy
- Spend time with family and friends
- Have fun
Summer offers countless opportunities for enjoyable movement:
- Swimming
- Bike rides
- Nature walks
- Playground visits
- Family hikes
- Backyard games
When children learn that movement is something to enjoy rather than a punishment for eating, they are more likely to develop a positive relationship with physical activity.
Final Thoughts
Children are constantly learning from the conversations happening around them. By speaking positively about food, respecting body diversity, and encouraging joyful movement, we can help create an environment that supports confidence, self-acceptance, and lifelong wellbeing.
This summer, let’s focus less on achieving the “perfect summer body” and more on helping kids appreciate and care for the bodies they already have.
