Episode 36: Body Bullying – How Parents Can Support Their Kids

"Why would they say that?" "Should I say something to the school?" "What if it changes how my child sees themselves?" In this episode, Christine and Chanel unpack one of the most painful (and common) experiences for families navigating disordered eating and body image issues: body bullying. Whether it's teasing about weight, comments about a lunchbox, or exclusion from sports—body-based bullying leaves lasting scars. This conversation offers validation, practical scripts, and expert-backed tools to help you respond with calm, compassion, and confidence. 🔍 In this episode: What counts as body bullying (hint: it's not just "teasing") How body shaming shows up in school, sports, and even within families The long-term impact on self-esteem, social participation, and disordered eating risks How to listen without rushing to fix—and why that matters Modeling body respect at home (even when you're still healing your own) What to say when your child is body shamed: empowering scripts that stick When to get schools or professionals involved 🧠 Resources Mentioned: National Eating Disorders Association – Bullying & Eating Disorders The Trevor Project – Youth Mental Health Beauty Redefined / More Than a Body StopBullying.gov – Body-Based Bullying Guide ARFID Collaborative 👋 Connect with Us: Follow the podcast on Instagram: @plateful.parenting.podcast Follow Chanel on Instagram: @chanel.kenner.nutrition Share your story, question, or feedback: [email protected] 📝 Explore more resources and parent support at: platefulparenting.com  🎧 Subscribe on your favorite platform and leave a review to help more families find this work. 💬 Let's keep the conversation going—your voice matters, and your kids are lucky to have you in their corner.