HERLIFE Magazine

problems with sensitivity, compassion and the ability to listen toyour child. Be prepared to acknowledge concerns that may becontributing to displeasure in your child’s self-image. It’s imperativethat a parental figure remain supportive throughout this andall changes. “Preaching” or insulting a child will likely result inthe topic becoming closed for discussion. Consult a physician forassistance in determining appropriate weight and exercise routinesfor your child’s body type.As adults we understand that each of us is different from oneanother. Children, however, need constant assurance that they are“normal” as they develop. Even small differences may make themfeel like they stand out. My youngest child was born with a large,red birthmark that covered her entire arm, hand and shoulder. Iwas consistently surprised when first-time visitors would ask whatwas “wrong” with her. Our pediatrician voluntarily informed usthat we could seek laser removal treatments as early as six monthsto avoid stigma. I was surprised that cosmetic surgery was offered asa solution to a problem that we felt did not exist.My husband and I chose to accept our daughter as she wasgiven to us. Rather than to pretend it did not exist, we embellishedher obtuse difference. We purposefully remind each of our fourchildren that differences make them special. Be it freckles, a surgicalscar, a larger-than-average head; this “world’s biggest birthmark”is our daughter’s trademark. Naturally, she is asked many questionsContinued on next pageHERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 75