Let's talk about raising a girl to have a positve body image. As you know, I have two young daughters (and one son), and I'm trying to instill healthy self-esteem and a positive attitude. Somtimes this can be a daunting task. I want to share what I learn, my observations & my experiences with everyone so other girls may benefit in some way.As I've stated before, I'm very particular about the tv shows, movies & music videos that I allow my children to watch. Sometimes even "kids shows" can be questionable. Now since we can't be with them 24/7, some things are bound to slip through but they know what I don't approve of and they know why. And since they're still young, I like to think that I have some influence on them even when I'm not around.
I recently read about a 15 yr old girl who has admitted to altering her photos on her Facebook page & My Space, using Photo Shop. And that young girls are doing this more than you would think. It's very sad to me that some girls are so dissatisfied with their looks. These girls are trying to achieve a look that is unattainable. I wonder if FB & Photo Shop had been around when I was a teenager, would I have been tempted to do the same.
I find it troubling that some young women are willing to objectify themselves just to sell music and/or move product, and we as a society proclaim them to be positive role models simply because they are successful at making money. What message is that sending to young girls?
Now days not only can they re-touch photos, they can digitally alter film. Nobody's perfect... we have to try to get our girls to understand this and accept it as a fact. I think my girls understand that they are beautiful in their own way, but as much as I hate to admit it, they are already 'body-conscience'. However, they do know that what they see in magazines & on tv isn't always the real thing. As mothers, we have a lot of work to do but we have to remain diligent. It will all be worth it. As much as we talk about loving yourself on the inside, we have to make sure they appreciate what's on the outside as well.
