“Mommy, I look terrible. I think I’m getting fat.”
This….. from the mouth of my 6 year old daughter. I’m horrified. Where has she heard such a thing? Does she really believe that (or is she just trying to shock me)? Is it possible that we are starting this body-image issue SO YOUNG?
I do my best to guard against this kind of language in the house…. my kids have NEVER heard me question myself like this. That is not to say that I don’t a) have flaws and b) have insecurities…. but I’m aware of how damaging this kind of self-defeating talk can be. So, I make a conscious effort to avoid this type of chatter at all times.
So…. where did she hear it? At school? On TV? I’m not sure, but I do know that my job to teach her confidence and self respect is just beginning. After chatting with her a little bit – her big brown eyes fixated on me as we talk about being proud of who we are, loving ourselves and accepting differences in everyone… I think I might have made a little progress. She smiles. She skips away. And she doesn’t stop to look in the mirror to see if SHE agrees with my assessment. Progress.
But how can I protect her from the damaging verbiage at school? Or what she watches on TV? It is my job as a mom to make it happen…. I can’t change what she hears from friends, but I can talk to her about it. And I CAN control what she sees on TV.
As I was contemplating writing this post (I had this conversation with my daughter last week), I was approached by One2One Network to explore a new program for kids – The emPower Movement – supporting the re-launch of the Power Rangers on a new network: Nickelodeon. Now, I remember the Power Rangers from when I was a kid. (dating myself, I know) And I don’t remember feeling ’empowered’ by them…. but have found that this Movement is different. I adore any show that aims to teach my children something good, encourages them to be powerful….and even better, allows me to be a part of the process.
And that is just the point of emPower. The program AND show encourage a few traits that I believe are fundamental for my small people: Confidence, healthy living, teamwork and friendship. The online site is interactive, allowing parents and kids to get involved together. So, of course, allowing my daughter to watch the Power Rangers doesn’t cure her hesitation about herself, but it does reinforce the messages I’m giving her at home.
Each week, the emPower site features a child who is making a difference in their school, community or family. You can nominate your child on their Facebook page to be the next ‘Ranger of the Week’. This feature is intended to be a source of inspiration for other kids and adults alike…. encouraging them to make lead a life that helps others and is fueled by confidence and teamwork.
And naturally, the show can be seen on Nickelodeon. You will have to check your local listings for show times.
This post is part of a sponsored One2One campaign for the Power Rangers and the emPower Movement… though the thoughts and emotions shared are entirely my own.
Leave a Reply