A few weeks ago, while enjoying a cozy reading session with my little ones, my five-year-old son snuggled up to me and remarked that I had a very squishy tummy. I paused the story, grappling with a whirlwind of thoughts. As a contemporary woman, I understand that my body is not perfect, and I should embrace that reality. Yet, the moment felt heavy with the pressure to convey a positive body image to my son.
In that instant, the wisdom I had gleaned from countless articles and conversations about body positivity seemed to evaporate. I felt compelled to respond, but nothing came to mind that felt genuine. Instead, my instinct was to tighten my stomach, as if I could somehow erase the “squish.” But I carried on reading.
That brief exchange prompted me to reflect on how long it had been since I truly acknowledged my own insecurities about body image. At this stage in my life, concerns about my appearance barely make it onto my radar. Questions like “Can I wear these jeans for the fifth day?” or “Do we have enough groceries to last another day?” take precedence over self-reflection. Most of the time, I hardly spare a glance in the mirror.
However, this moment with my son unearthed those hidden insecurities I thought I had tucked away when I became a mother. It wasn’t that I had overcome them; I simply put them on the back burner. When I inadvertently revisited that part of my life, the feelings of inadequacy came rushing back.
Teaching Healthy Body Image
So how do I teach my children about healthy body image when I still struggle with it myself? The answer was right next to me. I realized that it wasn’t me teaching my children; it was my children teaching me.
That day, my son was trying to impart a lesson I missed. When he referred to my tummy as “squishy,” it wasn’t a jab at my appearance; it was a declaration of comfort and security. To him, my squishy tummy represented warmth, love, and the safety of home. As he nestled against me, he expressed his contentment and joy.
Sometimes, it’s not the children who need lessons in body image; rather, adults have much to learn from their kids. When we ask children about their perception of bodies, we discover they see them as vessels for play, love, and exploration. They view skin as soft and sticky, and fingers and toes as tools for experiencing the world around them. Legs carry us toward adventure, arms reach for dreams, and bellies are meant for laughter and nourishment—often best when they’re delightfully squishy, especially in the case of their mothers.
Further Reading and Resources
If you want to delve deeper into topics surrounding body image and parenting, check out this insightful blog post on healthy body image. And for parents interested in the journey of parenthood, the CDC offers a wealth of information on pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re looking for resources on artificial insemination, consider checking out Make a Mom, a trusted retailer for at-home insemination kits.
Conclusion
In summary, the conversations we have with our children can teach us profound lessons about self-acceptance and body image. Embracing our unique qualities, including a squishy tummy, can foster a home filled with love and positivity.