Lesson Plans - Body Image

Signs of Trouble

• Signs of Body Image Dissatisfaction
• Signs of Eating Problems
• Guidelines for Helping

It's not uncommon for children and youth to express some degree of dissatisfaction with their bodies or appearance.

However, if students frequently express negative feelings about themselves and/or exhibit eating problems, they may need help.

Signs of Body Image Dissatisfaction

A student might have body image dissatisfaction issues if he or she:

• Over or under-estimates his or her body size.
• Talks about feeling "fat" or "ugly".
• Talks negatively about parts of his or her body.
• Worries about being too small or too large.
• Is ashamed or embarrassed by his or her appearance, size, height and/or physical maturity.
• "Overdoes it" with physical activity.
• Restricts food intake.

Signs of Eating Problems

A student might be experiencing eating problems if he or she:

• Displays excessive concern about weight, shape, and calories.
• Comments about feeling "fat" when not overweight.
• Feels guilt or shame about eating.
• Strictly avoids certain foods, particularly those considered "fattening".
• Displays unusual eating habits.
• Experiences irregular menstrual periods or loss of menstrual periods.
• Has frequent mood swings or experiences excessive irritability.
• Loses a significant amount of weight in a short time (might be a sign of anorexia).
• Has frequent weight fluctuations (might be associated with bulimia).

Source: Body Image Coalition of Peel, Directory of Resources and Services for the Prevention and Treatment of Eating Disorders.

Guidelines for Helping

Where to Get Help

If you have concerns about a student's disordered eating or suspect he or she has an eating disorder:

• Speak to your school principal or guidance counsellor.
• Access community resources and services: talk to your school nurse or call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700.
• Learn more about eating disorders and find support services by visiting the National Eating Disorders Information Centre (NEDIC) website.

Expressing Your Concerns to the Student and Family

When expressing your concerns to a student/their family:

• Be sure you're fully aware of and then follow your school's procedures.
• Be aware that a student and his or her parents might not at first appreciate your concern and might respond with denial or anger. Visit the National Eating Disorders Information Centre (NEDIC) website's Give and Get Help section for discussion tips.
• Don't take on the role of therapist. Although your concern and support for your student and his or her family are important, leave counselling to the professionals.

Source: Discover Healthy Eating! A Teacher’s Resource for Grades 1-8.