HERLIFE Magazine

herlife | mother’s perspectiveHelpingYour Child DealWith TheirChanging Bodiesby laura wynnAs parents, we watch our children grow with joy and excitement.That glee can turn quickly to sorrow, however,when we discover that our kids may be struggling withthese milestones; feeling discomfort or even anxiety about what ishappening within their bodies. Body image is a very important partof how they define who they are. As embarrassing or difficult as itmay be for you to talk about sensitive topics, expect your changelingto feel even more uncomfortable. Don’t wait for your child tocome to you with questions about his or her changing body. Bodyimage is important, especially during developmental years, so letyour child know that you’re available to talk any time. Assure yourchild that these conversations might be uncomfortable, but thatthey are important and that you are unconditionally available toanswer any and all questions.Before approaching a child who is developing, consider thepersonality of your changing child and address the topic of developmentin a way that is comfortable for that particular personality.Parental reaction can contribute to any fears they may be experiencing.In the case of our oldest son, I unknowingly created feelingsof anxiety over the discovery of his first loose tooth. A cautiousand analytical child, he became alarmed when I wiggled his toothand screeched in glee. As a result, I was banned from his mouth.Several weeks later I found a tiny tooth in his dresser drawer. Ilearned he had lost it the day before at school. I was devastatedto know that my son’s first tooth loss experience was assisted by aschool nurse because he knew she wouldn’t “talk about it all thetime and scream at him.” For this child, less conversation and withheldexcitement from Mom and Dad has continued to be the keyto open communication as he matures and has concerns regardinghis body.“Don’t wait for your childto come to you with questionsabout his or her changing body.”A common concern, and perhaps the most often addressedregarding juvenile development is weight. Opinions about the bestway to teach our children about weight and acceptable levels ofgain or loss vary immensely. Regardless of your personal values,the key to success with this issue is to confront potential weight74 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM