8 year old worried about fat legs

[Clayplease]

My 8 year old who is really slim but I would guess ideal weight for her height (taller end of spectrum) has started saying her legs are 'fat' and 'fatter than everyone else's'

I don't know how to respond in the best way, they absolutely aren't remotely fat. (I am lucky never to watch my weight, we don't own scales, I barely wear make up, don't have women's magazines or even newspapers around the house, have YouTube but no TV, hoped I was protecting her from some of this 😢)

My best friend developed anorexia when we were teens and it was awful. My sister had eating issues too. I've always been terrified about ED's.

I've been responding by saying her legs absolutely aren't fat but even if they were the fattest legs in the world it doesn't matter as long as you are a nice person but no idea if this is the right thing to say 😩 I desperately want to respond in the best way. Any ideas gratefully received.

One of the most important tasks of a parent is to help their children feel good about themselves. Parents often have to act a bit when raising children, they may make themselves look cross when children misbehave, or say good things about drawings and food they've made. I would make light of it as you have said, but find time later to talk to her, and ensure that she is not being bullied, or has any other worries. She may have compaired herself to a barbie doll, celebrity, or classmate, try and find out the reason without dwelling on it, or letting her know. Tell her people come in all shapes, and sizes, so as long as they are not overweight, "which the school normally checks" It doesn't matter.

Thanks for this, you're right it could be about something else she's worried about. I'll try to find out what made her think this. Thank you.