Body Inclusivity

Diet and weight loss talk is so common in our society that it's really hard to feel good about our bodies and the food we eat. Eating disorders and disordered eating are becoming more common. In 2019, 48.7% of youth 12-17 surveyed in the Southwestern Public Health region surveyed reported preoccupation with a desire to be thinner in the past year.  Schools and educators can play a role in supporting positive body image in children and youth by creating inclusive environments for people of all body sizes.

What is weight bias?

Weight bias happens when people have negative attitudes or beliefs about others based on their weight, shape, or appearance. It can show up in places like schools, workplaces, health care and even in everyday conversations. Experiencing weight bias can harm your mental and physical health. Every person deserves to be treated with respect and care, no matter their size or weight.

How does weight bias show up at school?

Weight-based teasing is one of the most common forms of bullying in schools. More than half of Ontario students in Grades 7–12 have reported being bullied about their weight or body shape at least once in the past year (OSDUHS, 2023). Reducing weight bias in schools helps students feel better about themselves, develop a positive body image, and succeed in their learning. Learn more about mental health and weight bias in schools.

What is a positive body image?

Body image is how you see and feel about your body – like a mental picture that you have of your body and the way you feel about your body when you look in a mirror. A positive body image means feeling positive about yourself and your body. A poor body image can damage self-esteem and lead to depression, disordered eating, stress on friendships, or feeling like you don’t belong at your school. Our body image is influenced by lots of factors, including opinions from other people, and what we see on social media.

Check out this quick video on body image to learn more.  

How can educators reduce weight bias and support positive body image?

‍Educators can help support a more inclusive school environment that ensures all body shapes and sizes feel accepted and welcomed. This approach contributes to creating a supportive climate that embraces diversity, helps increase self-esteem, and reduces the risk of discrimination. Looking for ways to get started?

• Avoid saying negative things about anyone’s body—including your own

• Skip the “diet talk” and focus on health and happiness instead

• Talk about how bodies come in all shapes and sizes and celebrate what makes each one special

• Use books, posters, and videos that show different kinds of bodies so everyone feels included

• Help students think about how the media and culture shape our ideas about what bodies “should” look like

• Take a neutral and inclusive approach when talking about food. Learn more.

Check out our resource full of easy activities to promote positive body image in elementary schools or view BrightBites.ca ideas on creating body inclusive schools.

What if I have concerns that a student has an eating disorder or disordered eating?

Eating disorders are mental health conditions with physical manifestations. They can occur in individuals of all shapes and sizes.

The National Eating Disorder Information Centre is an organization that provides information, resources, referrals and support to Canadians impacted by eating disorders or disordered eating. Educators can reach out to inquire about how to best support students. Visit  nedic.ca to access live chat support or call 1-866-NEDIC-20. Your school social worker or public health nurse may also be of support.

Where can I learn more about supporting students' body image and well-being?

• Eating Disorders Ontario Prevention: How Schools Can Help

• Understanding Food and Weight Preoccupation in Youth: An Educators Guide

• NEDIC Beyond Images Curriculum (for Grades 4–8): Explore body image, self-esteem, and media messaging while building critical thinking skills.

• Weight Neutral Well-Being in Schools: University of Calgary Body Image Lab