When Kids Talk about Bodies: What to Say and Why it Matters
A Practical Guide to Navigating “Fat Talk.”
When Kids Talk About Bodies, Know What to Say
Free digital guide with ready-to-use scripts.
Turn comments like “That person’s fat!” into lessons in respect and confidence. Download the guide for quick phrases and coaching tips.
Get Your Free Guide
When Kids Talk about Bodies: What to Say and Why it Matters
Kids remember how we react more than what was said. The right response shows them:
✔️ Their worth isn’t skin-deep
✔️ Comments are about the speaker—not their body
✔️ They have words to use next time
Learn What to Say
If a child says:
“Why is that person so fat?”
You can say:
“Bodies come in all shapes and sizes. That’s part of what makes people interesting.”
Inside The Guide
- How to talk about the word “fat”—is it really bad?
- Step-by-step scripts for four tricky moments:
- When someone calls your child fat
- When your child calls someone else fat
- When your child calls themselves fat
- Everyday tone-setting at home
- Big-picture insights on weight stigma and body respect.
- Printable PDF with conversation-ready phrases.
What Others Are Saying
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WithAll's What to Say resources have helped me lay important groundwork for my kids to build and maintain healthy relationships with their bodies and food. I'm trying to create a healthy space for my kids to develop and learn about their bodies, food, and the world they are in.KristyWhat to Say Parent & Coach in Ontario -
As I've recovered from my eating disorder over the past 10 years, I've learned the importance of setting a positive example for kids. Words matter and how we speak about our body image is so important. What to Say is saving lives with early intervention and prevention around eating disorders. I only wish the adults in my life had been better informed when I was sick with my eating disorder as a teen.ChloeWhat to Say Participant
Get the Free Guide for Handling Body Comments with Confidence
Free 13-page download with real-world phrases and scripts for tricky moments—like when a child says “That person’s fat!”
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WithAll Resource Download: When Kids Talk about Bodies: What to Say and Why it Matters
This guide is provided by WithAll, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing eating disorders and supporting recovery. Our evidence-based resources have helped thousands of adults create positive environments where young people can thrive.