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:
    1. When someone calls your child fat
    2. When your child calls someone else fat
    3. When your child calls themselves fat
    4. Everyday tone-setting at home
  • Big-picture insights on weight stigma and body respect.
  • Printable PDF with conversation-ready phrases.
What to Say

What Others Are Saying

  • Kristy
    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.
    Kristy
    What to Say Parent & Coach in Ontario
  • Chloe
    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.
    Chloe
    What 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.