How to support young people’s body image throughout Ramadan
Skipping meals and fasting are usually considered to be signs of disordered eating—but what about fasting for religious reasons? During Ramadan, which runs from late February to late March in 2025, Muslims around the world abstain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset for 30 days. In Australia, this typically means fasting between […]
Can film be more than fun? Assessing the impact of the ‘EMBRACE KIDS’ film on children’s and adults’ body image and wellbeing
Key takeaways: • Watching EMBRACE KIDS improved children’s and adults’ body image and self-compassion• The film addresses body image concerns before they take hold• It also provides a safe, engaging approach to sensitive conversations The EMBRACE KIDS documentary set out to inspire a whole new generation of young people to Embrace their bodies. At […]
AI-generated images: How we can protect our kids from the threats of perfection
Most of us grew up in a media landscape devoid of diversity throughout the 90s and 2000s. We know what it’s like to only see one representation of ‘beauty’; one ‘ideal’. To make matters worse, the genetically gifted celebrities and models were photoshopped and retouched in magazines and for billboard ads. It took us years […]
The traffic light system is detrimental to young bodies (and minds)
Disclaimer: The following blog post is written by Rachael, a member of the Embrace Kids Youth Crew, based on her personal experiences and observations regarding the traffic light system. Please note that Rachael is not a medical professional, and the views expressed are based on her own lived experience. For professional advice, we recommend consulting with […]
Unpacking fatphobia and how to avoid passing it onto your kids
How do you feel when you hear the word ‘fat’? Uncomfortable? Shameful? Disgusted? Embarrassed? For many, those emotions aren’t just a reflex—they’re learned. But ‘fat’ is not a bad word—even though you might shy away from using it, or wince when your kid says it, ‘fat’ is just a descriptor, much like ‘thin’ or ‘short’. […]
From the local pool to the world stage: The inspiring story of Henry Hughes
Meet Henry Hughes, a Deaflympian, Trustee and social advocate who wants to be the fastest deaf person alive! Henry brings a wealth of lived experiences to our Diverse Voices panel, and now he sits down with Dr Zali Yager to tell his story. “To know me, you have to understand my mother.” These aren’t […]
Understanding intersectionality and body image
Body image goes far beyond what we see in the mirror. For many of us, our self-perception is influenced by complex, layered identities – our race, culture, gender, sexuality, ability, and more. Each part of our identity brings unique pressures, shaping how we view ourselves and feel seen by others. Recognising these intersections helps us […]
The power of authenticity and embracing your uniqueness
This year, we’ve travelled around Australia to run Embrace Kids Live events, empowering young people to embrace and celebrate their bodies. Throughout the event series, Bonnie Ryan-Rowe of Youth Leadership Academy Australia shared an inspiring keynote with our attendees. Here is her story… When I was 6, I had one dream. I wanted to […]
Building positive food environments in early learning: Practical strategies for educators
Early childhood is a foundational time for growth and development, with nutrition playing a vital role in shaping a child’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Promoting a healthy relationship with food goes beyond offering nutritious meals—it’s about fostering body trust and avoiding patterns that can contribute to disordered eating later in life. How children learn about […]
What to do if your child is being bullied for their body or appearance
You might be doing all of the work to set up a really positive body image environment for your kids, but it’s impossible to control how other people speak to and treat them. If your child is being bullied for their body or appearance, you might think that it’s easiest to take measures to […]
