I absolutely LOATHE that store. My girls were NEVER able to fit into anything there and it felt awful. Glad someone is bringing attention to it with the film!
It wasn't easy. They had friends that shopped there and some even offered to buy things for her...which was a separate uncomfy conversation. Ultimately, we found stores that sold cute stuff that made them feel good about their bodies and how they looked in their clothes. Part of it is a mindset, isn't it. Even as moms, when we feel good in something we wear, our confidence grows and we feel amazing! Pass all that goodness on to our daughters. Let them love themselves no matter what size they are. Focus on strength and feeling good. Honestly, I wish there could be less publicity for things like the MET GALA. What is this image we are showing our kids?? What are they striving to be? WHY???
With my youngest, who is very much a preteen who wants to be fashionable and fit in, we actually explain the intricacies of why we don't support certain companies. She is extremely empathetic and once we explain, she is usually 100% behind our decision. We also practice what to say if people criticise your appearance. Things like saying "So what?" or "That's a weird thing to say to someone" or "Why do you care so much about what I look like?" give her some easy ways to feel a little more confident when kids make comments.
I absolutely LOATHE that store. My girls were NEVER able to fit into anything there and it felt awful. Glad someone is bringing attention to it with the film!
It really is such a cruel and unnecessary torment for so many girls, and it's all by design. It really makes my blood boil.
Do you happen to remember how you supported them through those awful feelings at the time?
It wasn't easy. They had friends that shopped there and some even offered to buy things for her...which was a separate uncomfy conversation. Ultimately, we found stores that sold cute stuff that made them feel good about their bodies and how they looked in their clothes. Part of it is a mindset, isn't it. Even as moms, when we feel good in something we wear, our confidence grows and we feel amazing! Pass all that goodness on to our daughters. Let them love themselves no matter what size they are. Focus on strength and feeling good. Honestly, I wish there could be less publicity for things like the MET GALA. What is this image we are showing our kids?? What are they striving to be? WHY???
So well said, Sarah!
With my youngest, who is very much a preteen who wants to be fashionable and fit in, we actually explain the intricacies of why we don't support certain companies. She is extremely empathetic and once we explain, she is usually 100% behind our decision. We also practice what to say if people criticise your appearance. Things like saying "So what?" or "That's a weird thing to say to someone" or "Why do you care so much about what I look like?" give her some easy ways to feel a little more confident when kids make comments.
I love that you've helped her develop scripts for how to respond. So empowering.