Common Sense Tip of the Week: Self-Image and Self-Esteem in a Digital World

Kids are bombarded with images of men and women -- famous or not -- who look perfect. Too perfect, in fact. And that's thanks to photo editing, which, as many of us parents know, can eliminate a model's pimples, make a celeb's cellulite disappear, and lengthen legs, slim waists, and erase wrinkles. But kids aren't always so savvy.

Kids who see unrealistic bodies or faces or clothing -- especially on folks they admire -- can feel inadequate as a result. Even photos of friends on Instagram or Snapchat are too perfect, thanks to flattering filters and selfie-editing tools (learn how girls are seeking, and subverting, approval online).

That's why it's important to teach kids about the reality behind the images that surround them. Empowering kids to see behind the photo spreads and the advertisements can help combat the negative effects of these images. Here are six ways to help your kids resist the Photoshop effect, and 14 books to help kids feel good about themselves and their bodies
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Cathedral School for Boys

Located in San Francisco, California, Cathedral School for Boys is an independent elementary school for boys in Kindergarten – Grade 8. Our mission is to provide an excellent education through intellectual inquiry and rigor that is centered in the Episcopal tradition and is respectful of and welcoming to people of all religious traditions and beliefs.