Overview

Reflections of Me…The ETFO Body Image Project is an integrated, research-based, whole-school curriculum package designed for K to 8 classrooms. This program assists teachers in ensuring that children in all elementary grades develop positive body image and self-esteem. The resource can be purchased from ETFO's online store shopETFO.

Purpose

This website section has been set up to address two distinct but intersecting purposes.  These purposes include:

1. Developing an understanding of the following issues:

• Body Image

  Body image is a term which may refer to a person's perception of their own physical appearance. A person's body image is how they perceive their appearance to be to others, which in many cases may be dramatically different from their objective physical condition or how they are actually perceived by others.

   

  Body Image research tells us that body acceptance messages need to be repeated at different ages and stages of development. It is this repeated exposure to the non-dieting weight acceptance and the body acceptance message that is important.  Societal norms that dictate what is considered attractive also need to be challenged.  Elementary children especially require teaching that supports all differences in physical characteristics, ability, and overall appearance as “normal.”  The curriculum should affirm diverse student bodies – all body types, abilities, colours, shapes, and sizes.

• Media Literacy

  Media literacy is an informed and critical understanding of the nature of the media, the techniques used by them, and the impact of these techniques. Also, the ability to understand and use the mass media in an active, critical way.

   

  Media Literacy plays an enormous role in our current society and so “students’ repertoire of communication skills should include the ability to critically interpret the messages they receive through the various media and to use these media to communicate their own ideas effectively as well.” Pg. 13 Ontario Curriculum Grades 1-8, Language.  2006

2. Providing support for teachers implementing ETFO’s Reflections of Me…Body Image Project curriculum resource.