Allison Kimmey, a mother of two, took her kids swimming. She didn’t anticipate her daughter to label her “fat” when it came time to leave the pool. Instead of becoming mad, Allison took this chance to teach her kids about body positivity and how to love themselves.
Allison’s daughter said, “I said you were fat, mama,” which sparked the conversation. I apologize. Allison then told her kids that nobody “is” overweight, but everyone “has” fat, which is a normal aspect of being human. Fat gives our body energy and protects our bones and muscles.
“Yes!” her kid said, pointing to her stomach. I have some on my stomach. “I don’t have any fat,” Allison’s son said. “I’m the skinniest; I just have muscles.” But Allison gently corrected him, saying, “Actually, everyone has fat.” But we all have different quantities. “Oh right!” her son said. I have some to keep my large muscles safe! “But you have more than I do.”
Allison stressed that being obese or thin doesn’t make one person better than another. Her kids comprehended and echoed what they had learned: “You can’t just be fat; everyone HAS fat, and it’s okay to have different fat.”
This exchange shows how Allison feels about body positivity and accepting herself. By doing things this way, she taught her kids that fat isn’t a negative term and that everyone has a distinct body shape. This method can help people appreciate themselves more and stop body shaming.
