Welcome to your February newsletter, [NAME]! Children are now well and truly back at school, and already there are some who are counting down to the holidays at the end of next month!  While most children are happy to be in their classrooms with their friends, there are some children who are too anxious to go to school and suffer from "School Refusal".  This is different from "Truancy" which is where the child deliberately chooses not to attend and does not have parents' permission (or knowledge in many cases!).  It is a traumatic condition for a child, stressful for a parent, and frustrating for a teacher. 

It is for this reason that I am going to discuss this topic on Channel 10's "The Circle" this Tuesday, 21st February, at 10.35am.  You can comment on their Facebook page here!).  Don't forget to set your TV recorder, [NAME]!!!

In fact, speaking of Facebook, I have a page and I would love to have you as a "friend", so you are welcome to add me!  

Thanks for the positive feedback about my updated Parents Online website.  If you notice any glitches or have some further suggestions about the site, please email me at sally-anne@parentsonline.com.au and let me know.

And please visit my "other" website at www.ANTSA.com.au

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Beginning May 4th, Sally-Anne McCormack (Clinical Psychologist) is running group sessions for children and teens to teach preventative strategies and practical advice on how to deal with negative thinking patterns.

Please email to find out the cost of the 5 week program (and how to apply for a partial rebate from Medicare) and for further information.  

Be QUICK so your child (or students) will not miss out!

By the age of eight, most children have already developed either a positive or negative body image of themselves.  This means that it is never too early to stress health over looks and create a positive self-image for your children.  It can be extremely overwhelming to guide your child through these critical years, especially if we are not exactly the perfect example.  With eating disorders on the rise, for both boys and girls, here are some tips to lead your children in the right direction with regards to body image:

Tip 1. Know What You Are Looking For

It is very important to recognise the warning signs for when your child may have a negative body image in order to catch it early.  Does your child only speak about themselves in terms of physical appearance?  Do they constantly put themselves down when it comes to their looks?  Do they frequently comment on the appearance of other people; whether it be at the shopping centre, in magazines or on television?  Do they diet excessively, deny hunger, or eat a lot of food without weight gain?  Taking steps when you first notice these symptoms may help prevent an eating disorder later on.

Tip 2. Focus Less On Looks

Very subtle changes in the way that you speak to your children can be the key in preventing a negative body image. Simple things like praising and acknowledging their characteristics rather than appearance can make a big difference. Some examples of things that you should avoid saying are "Your hair/clothes/face looks great today." or "If you eat that food, you will get fat.". Instead replace them with comments like "You are really good at ..." or "You seem to really know ...". Specific internal qualities are what parents need to praise, rather than applauding physical aspects that may not always be reflected. Another thing to avoid is describing people based on their appearance. Rather than saying "The thin/short/pretty lady", try saying "The intelligent/happy/energetic lady".  

Tip 3. Media Influence

While the media can be blamed for a large amount of the body image problem, there are also ways we can use the media to our advantage. A great way is to talk to your children about unrealistic media images. You could show them how pictures are airbrushed and even find images of the 'before' and 'after' photos to explain it further. Point out to your child that most men and women portrayed in the media are of similar proportions, but that in reality, there are many different body shapes. A great example of positive body images is the 'Dove Campaign for Real Beauty' which shows many different types of women to encourage users to be happy with who they are. It is important to point out that fashion/cat-walk models are thinner than approximately 98% of American women, and to point out the grave health issues that come with being that thin. 

Tip 4. Focus On Health Not Looks

It is a good idea to stress to your children the importance of health and looking after our bodies. It may help to explain that bodies are made to do things and exercise, and were not built to be waif-thin. You should always use health as the reason to eat healthy foods, rather than using weight-loss. Remind your children that if they eat healthier, they will feel better, rather than telling them that they will lose weight. When giving your kids snacks to eat, why not make up a vegetable platter? Or for dessert, rather than ice-cream, make a fruit salad with yogurt. This will teach your children to enjoy healthy food. Also, encourage physical activity and exercise. This will boost your child's self-esteem and body image. Something else to help you is to discourage your children from weighing themselves too often. It can get a bit confusing for your kids understanding that their BMI may not always be accurate, and that muscle weighs more than fat. Always provide healthy food options and educate them on portion control. However, let them know that there is nothing wrong with a treat once in a while. 

AND FINALLY...

March is my birthday month, so as a gift to you, [NAME], you may purchase "Stomp Out The ANTs" book and "Which ANT Are You?" poster together for only $30 (+ P & H). 

The only way to get this discount is to email us here directly.

As I have told you before, the book and poster are great resources for children, teens and adults who are at risk for (or suffer from) anxiety, stress or depression.

I trust that you will stay well, [NAME], and I will be in touch with you again next month with more tips for the children, teens and parents in your life.

Sally-Anne McCormack

Clinical Psychologist, parenting advisor, media consultant, author and a mother of 4!

(03) 881 22 373

 “To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today”

www.ANTSA.com.au

www.ParentsOnline.com.au

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