For Parents & Families
Kids who feel good in their bodies take care of their bodies.
We’re glad you’re here! As parents ourselves, we’re dedicated to fostering environments that support both our children’s and our own health, free from harmful diet and body standards.
What to Say to Kids
Want to raise kids who feel confident in their bodies? Learn 3 Simple Shifts to help your child avoid joining the 77% of young people struggling with body image distress—a key risk factor for serious health challenges. We recommend all adult role models start with this video.
What to Say for Me
Find peace with your body and food—for you and your kids. Launching January 8, 2025, this online course helps parents break the cycle of dieting and self-criticism. Gain practical tools and fresh to improve your relationship with your body and food while supporting your kids.
Sign up for What to Say’s monthly email for guidance on supporting young people’s health and well-being around food and body issues.
Past Tips of the Month have featured:
- Q&A videos with a Registered Dietitian
- Strategies for navigating food-focused holidays
- Tips for protecting kids’ mental health online
- Alternatives to diet-centric comments
- Conversation starters to discuss body image and food with your kids
Get Involved. Make a Difference.
Testimonials
"My 15-year-old granddaughter has anorexia. I joined What to Say to gain more insight and have ideas to help her. I have struggled with disordered eating my whole life and tried not to pass on my thoughts on eating. What you have done for me is give examples of what to say in place of what not to say. Thank you."
Articles for Parents
parents
Feb 16, 2025
We received this question from a mom to young kids: “It feels impossible to pack healthy snacks as everything is so processed and packaged these days. And it seems my kids only want these sorts of particularly sweet or particularly fatty snacks. I worry all this is making them, or will make them, heavy or…
parents
Feb 11, 2025
You’re days away from Valentine's Day, but already you are bracing yourself for the perennial parent-child Candy Battle. After all, just as surely as heart-shaped decorations are popping up in stores, loads of chocolates and candies will soon be showing up in your kid's school bags.
Advocates
Jan 25, 2025
Envision a lively 11-year-old, healthy and full of joy. So many friends, so engaged in the classroom, a naturally skilled athlete. She enjoys a well-rounded diet, and, like most kids her age, enjoys sweets. She’s stronger, and fuller than many of her peers, a result of earlier puberty, and an asset for sports.
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