Thangachi’s Corner: Body Image

That’s what left me flabbergasted in the middle of a Phys-Ed class, staring at a wide-eyed six-year old as basketballs bounced around us. It took me about three seconds to recover—I felt my response would momentarily shape this child’s perception of body image, and I wasn’t going to let an opportunity like that pass by without making a change worthwhile:

“Skinny?” I responded. “Forget about being skinny! What’s really important is being strong and healthy and happy. That’s what we should care more about, don’t you think? That’s why we do exercise and play games in Phys-Ed—to make our hearts strong and healthy. You’re beautiful just the way you are!”