Schools have been sent the ‘Respect Every Body’ information packs with the material needed to reinforce positive body image into existing curriculum, including on-line tools for students, parents and teachers.
The Federal Minster for Youth, Peter Garrett, said body image continues to be a significant concern for young people in schools.
“The National Survey of Young Australians conducted each year by Mission Australia consistently finding it to be among the top issues raised by youth,” Mr Garrett.
The information packs were developed by the Butterfly Foundation who specialize in supporting young people to develop positive body images and assist young people suffering from eating disorders.
According to the Butterfly Foundation poor body image leads to significant health problems for young people including depression and eating disorders.
According to Mr Garrett each school will receive posters containing vital information on creating a body image-friendly school and a website with ‘conversation starter’ activities to support discussions among students and in the wider school community.
“We’re also providing some practical ideas on how to develop a body image-friendly school,” Mr Garrett said.
“The resources are not an additional part of the curriculum, but can be incorporated into existing subjects such as health or physical education.”
