Skip to Main content
WithAll
Donate
  • Get Help
    • Apply for a Support GrantGet financial help during intensive eating disorder treatment.
    • Get Eating Disorder HelpLearn how to support someone in need & where to get help now.
  • Get Informed
    • Learn What to SayStart here! Discover 3 Simple Shifts to support kids’ body image.
    • For Parents & FamiliesGet tips to support positive body image & food habits for kids.
    • For Healthcare ProfessionalsEarn CME credit & learn to prevent eating disorders early.
    • For CoachesLearn to build body confidence in young athletes.
  • Get Involved
  • Resources
  • About
    • Who We AreLearn about our mission & the team behind it.
    • What We DoDiscover our What to Say Initiative & Recovery Support Program.
    • Our ExpertsMeet the professionals guiding our prevention & recovery work.
    • Contact UsHave a question? Send us a message.
  • Store
  • Donate
 

How can adults support girls who are struggling with their body image?

Published June 14, 2021 | Last Updated April 9, 2026

Child sitting on floor with head on their knees

In today's video Dr Charlotte Markey talks with us about how body image concerns are unfortunately very typical for girls, how the pandemic exacerbated this and more.

In this video:

  • Body image concerns are, unfortunately, very typical for girls. It is not a reflection of things going on at home or any one parent. (1:16)
  • The pandemic has also exacerbated this issue for many. (1:41)
  • Avoid making appearance-related comments. Make it clear to your kids that you value them for more than just how they look. (2:08)
  • Help kids focus on what their bodies can do and how their bodies allow them to live their lives. (4:00)
  • Talk to kids about social media. Encourage them to follow accounts that support their development, not just friends, celebrities, and influencers. (4:46)

To go deeper on this topic, you can find Dr. Markey’s book, The Body Image Book for Girls.


Wondering how to help your child navigate social media without harming their body image? Download our free Parent’s Guide to Social Media for expert-backed tips to reduce harm and build confidence.

Dr. Charlotte Markey
By Dr. Charlotte Markey
Charlotte Markey is a health psychologist with a particular interest in eating-related behaviors (i.e., body image, attempts at weight loss). She is especially interested in social influences on eating-related behaviors. Her research has examined romantic partners, parents, and media influences on eating behaviors and body image.

Related Articles

For Parents
parents

Supporting our children in developing a healthy relationship with food & body

Feb 11, 2021
We all want our children to lead happy, healthy lives. But in today's world it can be increasingly difficult to know how to best support kids' physical and mental health. As a parent you have a powerful opportunity to shape the way your children think about and feel in their bodies, and in turn, you…
Read More
Coach talking to kids
coaches

How Coaches Shape Athletes’ Body Image and Relationship with Food

Feb 11, 2021
Coaches play a powerful role in shaping young athletes—far beyond performance. The way coaches talk about food, bodies, and training can influence how athletes see themselves, how they eat, and how they care for their bodies for years to come.
Read More
For Coaches
Coaches

What to Say to Young Athletes About Body Image, Food & Exercise

Feb 11, 2021
Kids aren’t born worrying about carbs, calories, or body size. They’re born with energy to move, curiosity to explore, and pride in what their bodies can do.
Read More
Join Our Community →
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • TikTok
  • Contact Us
  • Accessibility
  • Privacy Policy
  • Registered 501(c)(3) EIN: 26-0419231
5354 Parkdale Drive, Floor 2 St. Louis Park, MN, 55416
©2018-2026 WithAll. All rights reserved.