Things You'll Need:
- Patience
- Understanding
- Trust
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Step 1
Focus on health instead of weight. If your daughter talks about her weight, remind her that the real focus should be her health.
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Step 2
Encourage her to participate in sports. Athletic girls learn the value of their bodies. They understand that proper nutrition and strong muscles help them excel in sports.
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Step 3
Discourage TV and movies. Try to limit the amount of time your daughter spends watching TV and movies. Instead, encourage her to spend time with her family and friends.
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Step 4
Discuss what you see. If you do happen to see a super skinny celebrity on TV, take the time to discuss it with your daughter. Talk about the unhealthy aspects of trying to be too thin.
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Step 5
Set a good example. If you're constantly dieting or worrying about your own weight, your daughter will believe this is acceptable behavior. Instead, focus on eating nutritious foods and being fit for overall health.
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Step 6
Build her self esteem. Regularly remind your daughter that she's special, beautiful and a wonderful person. Praise specific things about her, such as her beautiful hair or eyes. Be sure to praise non-physical aspects, too, like her smarts or her sense of humor.
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Step 7
Watch for warning signs. Look for warning signs that your daughter may be becoming obsessed with her body image. Constantly dieting, exercising, counting calories or stepping on the scale may be signs that your daughter is being negatively influenced by skinny celebrities.
