Parent Guide

To Reflect on the Episode:

  • What did you think about Maisey’s story?

  • Have you ever had a moment like that — where something someone said made you feel different about your body?

  • What part of the story stood out to you the most?

  • If you were in the playground with Maisey, what do you think you would’ve done?

To Explore Body Image:

  • Is there a part of your body you sometimes feel unsure about?

  • What are some things your body can do that you’re really proud of?

  • Has anyone ever made a comment about your body — good or bad — that stuck with you?

  • If someone said something unkind about a friend’s body, what do you think would be a kind or brave thing to do?

To Build Empathy and Character:

  • Why do you think those girls said what they did?

  • Do you think people sometimes say things without realising they’re hurtful?

  • What would it look like to be someone who makes others feel safe and included?


Simple Scripted Phrases for Parents

To Affirm:

  • I love your body — not because of how it looks, but because it’s yours. It’s part of you, and I love all of you.

  • Your worth isn’t based on what anyone else says. You’re valuable just as you are.

  • Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and all of them are good. Your body is good.

To Coach:

  • If that happened to you, what do you think you’d do? Want to talk through some options?

  • Want to practise a sentence you could say if something like that happens?

  • Sometimes it helps to have a little phrase ready, like “That’s not kind,” or “I’m proud of my body.” Want to come up with one together?

To Encourage Action:

  • Would you want to write down a list of things your body helps you do?

  • Let’s think of one way this week you could include someone else who might be feeling left out.

  • What’s something we could do together that helps you feel strong, proud, or creative in your body?

How can you model this? 

1. Speak Positively About Your Own Body
Avoid complaining about your weight, shape, or features. Say things like, “My legs are strong — they help me carry the groceries and chase you in the backyard.” Let your child hear you appreciating your body for what it does, not how it looks.

2. Avoid Criticism of Others’ Appearance
Don’t comment negatively on the way others look — in real life, media, or casual conversation. Instead, focus on character and actions. If someone behaves unkindly, critique the behaviour, not their looks.

3. Celebrate Function, Not Just Form
Talk about bodies as tools for movement, creativity, and connection. Say things like, “Isn’t it amazing how our hands can paint and build and hold each other’s?” or “I love how your strong arms helped your sister today.”

4. Include Others Intentionally
Greet and include people from different backgrounds, body types, and abilities. Invite others to join in games or conversations when at the park, church, or school events. Point out and praise inclusion when you see it in your child or others.

5. Show What to Do With Unkindness
When someone is rude or dismissive (even toward you), narrate your response calmly for your child: “That comment was unnecessary, but I know who I am.” Show your child how to walk away from unkindness without internalising it.

6. Wear Clothes That Make You Feel Confident
Dress in things that make you feel joyful and free, not just those that hide or minimise. Let your daughter see you enjoy your body and wear colours, patterns, or outfits that reflect your personality.

7. Encourage Creative Expression Through Movement
Dance in the kitchen, stretch together, or do silly obstacle courses. Show that movement isn’t just for fitness or appearance, but for fun and feeling alive.

8. Apologise When Needed
If you accidentally say something appearance-based that could hurt, own it. Say something like, “I shouldn’t have said that about my arms in front of you. I want to be more careful — I know our bodies are good, even when they don’t look how we expect.”