Isn’t 8 years too young to start thinking about body image?

[Wherestheinstructions]

2 ‘issues’ here that I need help/perspective and others experience of…..

first, I’m concerned about my daughters weight. She’s always been stick thin, but as she’s grown this past year she’s gaining weight on her stomach. She’s developing little breast buds, and has what looks like cellulite (on her tummy area) sometimes depending on how she’s sitting/moving. Is this normal? Surely it’s too soon for breast buds, maybe it’s her being overweight? she’s always hungry and wanting to eat crap, which I have to admit I struggle with her diet as she’s so picky.

secondly, she’s asking to start shaving her legs! It’s like she’s already 12, not 8.

is this normal development, and what age is acceptable?

I had body image issues that I now know were body dysmorphia and I’m very keen to not let her go through the same.

Id say it's normal. I have a 9yo who has developed breast buds. She hasn't asked to shave yet though.

As someone who was shamed by my DM for just normal aspects of growing up please talk to her. Get a book about puberty, talk to her about whether she would like crop tops, discuss hair removal and explain that she never needs to do it but if she wants there are lots of ways and you can talk her through them (I think ladyshave is the best way for this age).

I would also just encourage healthy foods as much as possible. It's also ok to discuss nutrition like the eat well plate and talk about protein Vs sugars. Don't demonise anything but you can say she will feel fuller for longer with nuts and other proteins for example.

I have started having body image issues at 8 exactly. I was stick thin, but my sister made a comment about my stomach. At 15 I had full blown anorexia nervosa. If I were you. I would reach out for help to a professional