Most moms are well aware of the importance of fostering self-esteem in their daughters.  What many do not realize is the effect their own body image has on their children.  Even if you don’t come out and say that you’re unhappy with your body, the hang-ups you have can contribute to your daughter’s insecurity.

The media’s portrayal of women gives the impression that everyone is, or should be, ultra-thin and physically flawless.  It sets an impossible standard, and it’s easy for us to feel inadequate when we do not measure up.  Young girls are especially impressionable, so it is important for us to set a good example of positive self-esteem for them.

When young girls see their mothers obsessing over weight and other body issues, they often start believing that their bodies are not up to par either.  Mothers who are unhappy with their bodies are also more likely to criticize their daughters for their weight or other aspects of their appearance, sometimes without even realizing what they’re doing.  These things, combined with media images and peer pressure, can lead to low self-esteem, unnecessary dieting, and an increased risk of eating disorders in the child.

Anorexia and bulimia often develop in the teen years.  But the foundation for these disorders is usually laid much earlier.  It is important that we be good role models for our daughters so that they can learn by example to love their bodies.

Learning to see our bodies in a positive light is essential if we want to set the right example for our daughters.  We have to learn not to obsess with being skinny and “perfect.”  Instead, we should concentrate on our inner selves, and do our best to keep our bodies healthy.

Also, keep in mind that a weight that is healthy for one person is not for everyone.  Your height and build determine what weight is best for you.  The models and actresses we see on TV and in magazines are often underweight, and that is not what we or our daughters should be aiming for.  When it comes to our bodies, health should be our biggest concern, not looking like a certain ideal.

Young girls are bombarded with messages that their bodies are not acceptable unless they look a certain way.  These messages come from the media and their peers, but they can also come from home.  As mothers, working on our body image will help us be good role models for our daughters.  By accepting ourselves the way we are, we can help our daughters develop a good body image and positive self-esteem.