We might tell our kids to “love their bodies” or “be kind to themselves”, but the truth is, we often struggle to believe or practice it ourselves. Parenthood comes with big changes — maybe there’s no time for the gym, fast food is just more convenient on some days, and for women, we quite literally grow another human inside us. All of this can make it hard to embrace ourselves. And with the “shoulds” that already riddle parents’ minds, it’s easy to be hard on ourselves. But here’s the thing: when we show ourselves kindness through these changes, it does more than just boost our own well-being. It sets the tone for how our kids learn to accept and love themselves too.
A study conducted by researchers from Laval University, University of Quebec in Trois-Rivieres, and New York University found that parents who practiced self-compassion were less likely to engage in negative self-talk about their appearance. This self-acceptance created a ripple effect: their kids developed higher self-esteem and were better at handling body image pressure from peers or social media. When parents focus on being gentle with themselves and embracing their bodies, they help set the stage for their children to grow up with a healthier, more confident relationship with their own bodies.
But the impact goes beyond body image. Research published in The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health highlights that positive body image is linked to better psychological well-being, higher self-esteem, and more balanced health outcomes, in childhood and beyond. The takeaway? By treating ourselves with compassion and acceptance, we show our children how to do the same, creating a strong foundation for their emotional and physical well-being. So, next time you catch yourself being overly critical of your body, remember – those little eyes are watching and learning. Let’s show them what self-love and compassion look like!