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How do I guide my child through body image issues and food?

Parenting Perspective

It requires empathy, education, and Islamic insight to help a child with body image issues. Start by assuring them that they are worth something not based on looks, but character, health, and righteousness. Educate your child that all people differ from one another, and that Allah Almighty has made every individual in the best possible form. Encourage healthy eating for energy and worship, not weight. Eliminate negative weight talk or appearance talk in the house and model instead respect for food and thankfulness for health. Promote physical activity as self-care and Ibadah. Encourage them to talk about what they can do with their body instead of how it looks. Connecting health to faith reinforces confidence and self-esteem.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah at Teen (95), Verse 4: ‘Indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created mankind with the best (designed) specification.’ It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: ‘Allah Almighty does not look at your appearance or wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.’ It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5199, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: ‘Your body has a right over you.’ These teachings help children build a healthy relationship with food and body image grounded in Islam and self-respect.

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