Session 1: What's Your Story?

(Slide 1: Session 1: What's Your Story?)

"Welcome! Thanks for being here today. This program is all about exploring something really important: how you see and feel about your body. We call that 'body image.' This is a safe space, and everything we talk about stays between us. My goal is to help you feel more confident and accepting of yourself. How does that sound?"

(Pause for student response, encourage questions)

"Great. So, when you hear the words 'body image,' what comes to mind for you? There are no right or wrong answers here. Just your initial thoughts."

(Listen actively, validate their responses).

"That's a really good way to put it. As the slide says, body image isn't just about what you look like on the outside, but how you perceive and feel about your body. It's often an inner experience. And it's something that can definitely change over time, even day-to-day. Have you ever noticed that?"

(Pause for student response)

(Slide 2: Influences on Body Image)

"Now, let's think about where these feelings and perceptions come from. Our body image isn't something we just create in a vacuum. It's shaped by so many things around us. Take a look at this slide. Can you think of any of these influences that might have played a role in how you see your body?"

(Facilitate discussion, prompt with examples like 'Have friends ever said anything?', 'Do you notice specific trends online?')

"It's powerful to recognize these influences, isn't it? Because once we know where certain ideas come from, we can start to think about whether we want to keep them or challenge them."

(Slide 3: More Than Just a Body)

"Here's a really important idea: your body is a part of you, but it's not all of you. You are so much more than just your physical appearance. Think about all the amazing things that make you, well, you! Your personality, your talents, your interests, your dreams. What are some things that come to mind when you think about your unique self, beyond what you look like?"

(Encourage student to share a few examples)

"Exactly! Those are all incredible parts of your identity. And sometimes, when we focus too much on our physical appearance, we forget to celebrate all these other wonderful things."

(Slide 4: Activity: My Identity Web)

"To help us visualize this, we're going to do a quick activity called 'My Identity Web.' I have a Session 1 Worksheet: My Identity Web here for you. The idea is to put your name in the middle, and then branch out with all the different aspects that make up who you are. We've talked about some, like hobbies or personality traits, but also think about your roles (like a student, a friend, a sibling), your values, your heritage, your dreams. Don't worry about being perfect; just get your ideas down. We can brainstorm together if you like."

(Provide the worksheet. Allow time for the student to work, offering support and prompts as needed. After they've filled it out, discuss what they put down.)

"Look at that! See how much goes into making you you? Your body is there, but it's surrounded by so many other rich and important aspects of your identity. How does it feel to see it all laid out like that?"

(Pause for reflection)

"This 'identity web' is a great reminder that your worth isn't tied to just one part of you. It's about the whole amazing person you are. We'll build on this in our next sessions as we dig deeper into how media influences us and how to build a stronger, more positive body image. Any questions before we wrap up for today?"

(Address any questions and thank them for their participation.)

Session 1 Worksheet: My Identity Web

Instructions: In the center circle, write your name. In the surrounding circles, write down words or phrases that describe who you are, your interests, talents, values, dreams, and anything else that makes you unique! Think beyond just your physical appearance. If you need more space, draw extra circles!

Reflect and Share:

1. Looking at your Identity Web, what is one thing that surprised you about yourself?
   
   
   
2. How does seeing all these different aspects of yourself make you feel about your overall identity?
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Why is it important to remember that you are more than just your physical appearance?
   
   
   
   
   
   

Session 2: Media Magnifying Glass

"Welcome back! How was your week? Did you have any thoughts about our last session on your identity web, or anything else you'd like to share?"

(Pause for student response, address any check-in points.)

"Great. Today, we're going to put on our detective hats and investigate something that has a huge influence on how we see ourselves: media. When I say 'media,' what kind of things come to mind?"

(Pause for student response)

"Exactly! Social media, TV shows, movies, ads, magazines, even video games – it's everywhere. Let's look at how media often portrays body image."

(Slide 5: Session 2: Media Magnifying Glass)

"As the slide asks, what kind of media do you consume most often? And as you're consuming it, how does it typically make you feel? Do you ever notice if it shows a very realistic view of people and bodies, or something else?"

(Facilitate discussion, focusing on their personal experiences and feelings.)

(Slide 6: The Unfiltered Truth?)

"This slide talks about something really important: filters, edits, and airbrushing. Have you ever used a filter on social media? Or seen someone else use one?"

(Pause for student response)

"Many, many images we see online and in traditional media are altered. They might be digitally enhanced, photoshopped, or perfectly posed. The goal is often to create an 'ideal' image, but that image is rarely real. How do you think seeing these altered images so often affects people's body image?"

(Discuss the impact of unrealistic beauty standards.)

(Slide 7: Decoding Media Messages)

"Media doesn't just show us images; it sends us messages, even if we don't always realize it. Take a look at these common messages on the slide: 'You need this to be beautiful,' 'Only certain bodies are good,' 'You're not enough as you are.' Can you think of any other subtle or not-so-subtle messages media sends about bodies or beauty?"

(Encourage student to share examples they've noticed.)

"These messages can be really powerful because they're everywhere. Our job today is to learn how to identify them, so we can decide whether to accept them or challenge them."

(Slide 8: Activity: Deconstructing Media)

"Now, it's your turn to be a media detective! I have a Session 2 Worksheet: Deconstructing Media for you. On this worksheet, we'll look at some examples (or you can even think of an example you've recently seen) and analyze them. We'll ask: What is the main message? How is it trying to make you feel? And is it realistic? This helps us see beyond the surface."

(Provide the worksheet. Work through a few examples together, guiding the student on how to deconstruct the messages. You might want to have a few print ads or social media screenshots ready, or simply discuss common media types.)

"Great job being a media detective! What did you learn from looking at these examples?"

(Pause for reflection)

"It's so important to be mindful of what we're consuming and how it makes us feel. Being able to 'deconstruct' media messages is a powerful tool for protecting your body image. Next time, we'll talk about the conversations we have with ourselves. Any questions before we finish today?"

(Address questions and thank them.)

Session 2 Worksheet: Deconstructing Media

Instructions: Think of a recent advertisement, social media post, or TV show you’ve seen that features people. Analyze it using the questions below. If you can, describe the image or message you're analyzing.

Media Example:

Type of Media (e.g., Instagram ad, TV show, magazine cover):

Description of the Image/Message:

Analysis Questions:

1. What kind of body types, skin tones, or appearances are being shown? Are they diverse, or do they seem to fit a narrow standard?
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. What is the main message this media is trying to send about beauty, success, or happiness? (e.g., "Buy this product to be happy," "Only thin people are attractive")
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Do you think this image or message is realistic? Why or why not?
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. How does seeing this type of media make you feel about your own body or appearance? (e.g., confident, insecure, inspired, angry)
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. What could be a more positive or realistic message this media could send?
   
   
   
   
   
   

Session 3: Inner Critic vs. Inner Cheerleader

"Welcome back! How was your week? Did you notice anything new in the media you consumed, or did you have any thoughts about how media affects how you feel?"

(Pause for student response, address any check-in points.)

"Thanks for sharing. Today, we're shifting our focus a bit, but it's directly connected to how we feel about our bodies. We're going to talk about the conversations we have with ourselves – what goes on inside our heads."

(Slide 9: Session 3: Inner Critic vs. Inner Cheerleader)

"The slide mentions an 'inner critic' and an 'inner cheerleader.' We all have these voices inside us. The inner critic is the part that judges us, points out flaws, and might say negative things. The inner cheerleader is the part that encourages us, reminds us of our strengths, and offers kindness. Which voice do you feel is louder for you most of the time?"

(Allow time for student to reflect and share. Listen non-judgmentally.)

"It's completely normal to have both voices. The goal isn't to silence the critic completely, but to strengthen the cheerleader so it has a more balanced role. How does your inner critic usually sound? What kind of things does it say about your body or yourself in general?"

(Slide 10: Negative Self-Talk Traps)

"This slide gives some examples of common negative self-talk traps: 'I'm not good enough,' 'My body isn't right,' 'Everyone else looks better.' When we repeat these thoughts, it's like we're constantly putting ourselves down. How do you think these kinds of thoughts can affect your body image and how you feel about yourself overall?"

(Facilitate discussion on the impact of negative self-talk.)

"Exactly. It can be really damaging. But the good news is, we can learn to change these patterns."

(Slide 11: Becoming Your Own Cheerleader)

"This slide gives us a roadmap for becoming our own cheerleaders. The first step is to identify the negative thought – to actually notice it when it pops up. Then, we challenge it. Ask yourself: Is this 100% true? What's the evidence for this thought? Often, we'll find there isn't much evidence. Finally, we reframe it. We turn that negative thought into something more positive or at least neutral. For example, if your inner critic says, 'My body isn't good enough,' you could reframe it to, 'My body is strong and helps me do many things.' Or, we can practice affirmations – positive statements like, 'I am worthy,' or 'My body is capable.' Let's try one now. Can you think of a negative thought you sometimes have about your body, and then try to reframe it into something more positive?"

(Guide the student through an example, offering support.)

"That's a fantastic start! It takes practice, but it gets easier."

(Slide 12: Journal: My Self-Talk Journey)

"To help you practice this, we're going to use the Session 3 Journal: My Self-Talk Journey. This journal is a space for you to write down some of those negative thoughts you notice and then actively work on reframing them. You can also write down positive affirmations you want to practice. The more you practice, the stronger your inner cheerleader will become. How do you feel about giving this a try this week?"

(Provide the journal. Explain that it's a personal reflection tool and they can share as much or as little as they like next time.)

"This journal is a really powerful tool for building self-awareness and self-compassion. Remember, it's okay if it feels challenging at first. The important thing is that you're taking steps to be kinder to yourself. Next session, we'll talk about recognizing all your amazing strengths beyond just appearance. Any questions for today?"

(Address questions and thank them.)

Session 3 Journal: My Self-Talk Journey

Instructions: This journal is a space for you to become more aware of your inner thoughts about your body and yourself. Use the sections below to identify negative self-talk and practice reframing it. You can write in it throughout the week.

Part 1: Noticing My Inner Critic

• Throughout the week, pay attention to any negative thoughts you have about your body or appearance. Write them down here.
• Example: "My legs are too big."

Part 2: Challenging and Reframing

• Look at the negative thoughts you wrote above. For each one, try to challenge it. Is it 100% true? What's another way to think about it? Turn it into a more positive or neutral statement.
• Example Challenge: "My legs are strong and carry me where I need to go."

1. Original Negative Thought:
   
   
   
   Reframed Thought:
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Original Negative Thought:
   
   
   
   Reframed Thought:
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Original Negative Thought:
   
   
   
   Reframed Thought:
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: My Daily Affirmations

• Write down 1-3 positive affirmations you will say to yourself each day this week. These are statements that make you feel good and worthy.
• Example: "I am kind to myself and my body."

Reflection:

• How did it feel to consciously challenge negative thoughts and practice affirmations?
  
  
  
  
  
  
• What did you learn about your inner dialogue this week?
  
  
  
  
  
  

Session 4: Strengths & Superpowers

"Welcome back! How was your week? Did you have a chance to work with your Session 3 Journal: My Self-Talk Journey? How did it feel to challenge those negative thoughts and practice affirmations?"

(Pause for student response, address any check-in points about their journal and self-talk.)

"That's great to hear. It's a powerful practice. Today, we're going to build on the idea that you are so much more than your body. We're going to focus on your unique strengths and personal qualities."

(Slide 13: Session 4: Strengths & Superpowers)

"This slide asks, 'What makes you uniquely YOU?' Last time we talked about your identity web, and how your body is only one part of that. Now, let's think about your personality traits, your skills, your talents – the things you're good at, or the positive ways you interact with the world. These are your personal superpowers! What comes to mind when you think about what makes you special?"

(Encourage student to share a few ideas, listen actively.)

"Those are wonderful examples! Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we don't like about ourselves, especially physically, that we forget to celebrate all the amazing qualities we do have."

(Slide 14: What Are Your Superpowers?)

"This slide gives us some examples of different kinds of strengths: kindness, creativity, resilience, humor, intelligence. These aren't about how you look; they're about who you are and what you do. Are there any on this list that resonate with you, or can you think of other strengths that aren't on this list?"

(Discuss the examples and prompt the student for their own.)

"It's amazing how many different ways there are to be strong and talented, isn't it? And these are the things that truly make you shine and contribute to the world."

(Slide 15: Activity: My Strengths Shield)

"To help you visualize and celebrate these inner strengths, we're going to create a 'Strengths Shield.' I have the Session 4 Activity: My Strengths Shield for you. Think of symbols, words, or even small drawings that represent your strengths. This shield will be a visual reminder of your inner power and all the valuable things that make you, you. There's no artistic skill required – it's all about expressing your strengths. We can work on it together."

(Provide the activity sheet. Allow time for the student to work, offering prompts and encouraging them to be creative. Discuss their choices afterward.)

"Wow, look at your shield! What does it feel like to see all your strengths laid out in front of you like this?"

(Pause for reflection)

"This shield is a powerful tool to remind you that your true worth extends far beyond what you see in the mirror. It's about the incredible person you are on the inside. Keep this somewhere you can see it often! Next time, we'll talk about body diversity and how to embrace all kinds of bodies, including your own. Any questions for today?"

(Address questions and thank them.)

Session 4 Activity: My Strengths Shield

Instructions: In the shield below, write or draw symbols for your unique strengths and positive qualities. These are your personal superpowers that make you amazing, inside and out! Think about your personality, talents, values, and how you interact with the world.

Reflect:

1. What was one strength that you felt proud to include on your shield?
   
   
   
2. How does focusing on these strengths change how you feel about yourself?
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Where will you keep your strengths shield as a reminder of your inner power?
   
   
   

Session 5: Body Diversity & Acceptance

"Welcome back! How was your week? Did you keep your Session 4 Activity: My Strengths Shield nearby? What was it like to reflect on your strengths this week?"

(Pause for student response, address any check-in points.)

"That's wonderful to hear. Remembering your strengths is such a powerful way to boost your self-esteem. Today, we're going to talk about a really important concept: body diversity and acceptance. It's about recognizing that there's no single 'right' way for a body to look."

(Slide 16: Session 5: Body Diversity & Acceptance)

"What does the phrase 'body diversity' mean to you? When you hear it, what comes to mind?"

(Allow time for student to reflect and share. Listen non-judgmentally.)

"Exactly. As the slide says, it means appreciating the wide range of natural human body shapes, sizes, and appearances. Just like there's diversity in height, hair color, or eye color, there's a natural diversity in body types. And this is something to celebrate, not to try and change or conform."

(Slide 17: Challenging Beauty Standards)

"We talked in an earlier session about how media sends us messages. This slide takes that a step further, reminding us that society often sets very narrow and unrealistic beauty standards. These standards are usually exclusive, meaning they only celebrate a very specific look. How do you think these narrow standards can affect our body image and our acceptance of ourselves and others?"

(Facilitate discussion on the harmful effects of societal beauty ideals.)

"You're absolutely right. Comparing ourselves to these often unattainable ideals can be incredibly damaging. It's crucial for us to learn to question and challenge these standards, rather than letting them dictate how we feel about ourselves."

(Slide 18: Reading: Celebrating All Bodies)

"To explore this idea further, I have a short reading for us called Session 5 Reading: Celebrating All Bodies. It shares different perspectives on appreciating unique bodies and challenging the idea that there's one 'perfect' way to look. We can read it together, or you can read it silently. What new insights or thoughts come to your mind after reading this?"

(Provide the reading. After reading, discuss the content with the student.)

"What did you find most impactful or interesting in that reading? Did anything surprise you?"

(Pause for reflection and discussion.)

(Slide 19: Embrace Your Unique Body)

"This final slide for today brings it all together. Your body is truly amazing for all that it can do – it allows you to move, to learn, to experience the world. It's so important to practice self-compassion and kindness towards your body. Treat it with respect and care, and celebrate its unique form. There's only one you, and your body is a part of that unique package. What's one way you can show kindness or respect to your body this week?"

(Encourage a specific, actionable idea from the student.)

"That's a fantastic idea. Remember, embracing body diversity starts with embracing your own unique body. Next time, in our final session, we'll pull all these tools together to create your own personal action plan for maintaining a healthy body image. Any questions before we finish today?"

(Address questions and thank them.)

Session 5 Reading: Celebrating All Bodies

The Beauty of Difference

In a world that often tries to tell us there's one ideal way to look, it's easy to forget a simple truth: bodies come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and abilities. This incredible variety is called body diversity, and it's something truly worth celebrating. Just like no two flowers are exactly alike, no two human bodies are identical, and that's a beautiful thing.

Think about it: wouldn't the world be boring if everyone looked the same? Our differences are what make us unique and interesting. They reflect our genetics, our heritage, our life experiences, and so much more. Embracing body diversity means recognizing and respecting these natural variations.

Challenging the

Session 6: Building My Body Image Toolkit

"Welcome to our final session! How was your week, and what were your thoughts on body diversity and acceptance after our last discussion and the reading?"

(Pause for student response, address any check-in points.)

"Thanks for sharing. Today is really exciting because we're going to pull everything we've learned together into your own personalized toolkit for maintaining a healthy body image. This isn't the end of the journey, but it's where you take all these new tools and apply them to your life."

(Slide 20: Reflect & Reinforce)

"Let's take a moment to look back. What are some of the most important things you've learned about body image throughout our sessions? What's stuck with you the most?"

(Encourage student to share, actively listen and affirm their insights.)

"Those are fantastic takeaways. You've really processed a lot of important ideas."

(Slide 21: Your Body Image Super-Tools)

"This slide gives us a quick recap of the 'super-tools' we've explored: your Session 1 Worksheet: My Identity Web for seeing your whole self, Session 2 Worksheet: Deconstructing Media for critically analyzing messages, your Session 3 Journal: My Self-Talk Journey for being your own cheerleader, your Session 4 Activity: My Strengths Shield for focusing on your inner power, and understanding body diversity from our Session 5 Reading: Celebrating All Bodies. These aren't just for these sessions; they're tools for life! Which of these tools do you feel has been most helpful for you so far?"

(Pause for student response.)

(Slide 22: Project: My Body Image Action Plan)

"Now, for the main event of our final session! It's time to create your own personal action plan. I have the Session 6 Project Guide: My Body Image Action Plan here for you. This guide will help you think about specific, actionable steps you can take to continue developing and maintaining a healthy body image. What specific commitments can you make to yourself? What resources or people can support you? We'll build this together, making it completely tailored to you."

(Provide the project guide. Guide the student through each section, helping them articulate clear and realistic goals and strategies. Emphasize that it's okay to start small.)

"This action plan is your personal roadmap. What does it feel like to have a concrete plan for moving forward with a healthier body image?"

(Pause for reflection.)

(Slide 23: You've Got This!)

"Developing a healthy body image is an ongoing journey, not a destination. There might be good days and challenging days, and that's completely normal. The most important thing is to be patient and kind to yourself. Remember your strengths, remember the tools you've gained, and remember that you are valuable, just as you are. I'm really proud of the work you've done in these sessions. Do you have any final questions or thoughts you'd like to share?"

(Address any final questions. Offer continued encouragement and, if appropriate, discuss any further support resources available.)

Session 6 Project Guide: My Body Image Action Plan

Instructions: Now it's time to create your own personalized plan for continuing to develop and maintain a healthy body image. Think about what you've learned and what strategies resonate most with you. Be specific and realistic!

Part 1: My Personal Vision

• What does a healthy body image look, sound, and feel like for you? (e.g., "I feel confident in my clothes," "I don't compare myself to others on social media," "I appreciate what my body can do")
  
  
  
  
  
  

Part 2: Strategies & Commitments

• Based on our sessions, what specific strategies will you commit to practicing regularly? Choose at least 3.

1. Media Literacy: How will you be a media detective? (e.g., "Unfollow accounts that make me feel bad," "Limit screen time," "Question images I see")
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Self-Talk: How will you strengthen your inner cheerleader? (e.g., "Use daily affirmations," "Challenge negative thoughts with reframes," "Journal my feelings")
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Focusing on Strengths/Identity: How will you remember you're more than your appearance? (e.g., "Review my Strengths Shield," "Focus on my talents and hobbies," "Spend time with people who value me for who I am")
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Body Acceptance: How will you practice accepting your unique body? (e.g., "Focus on what my body does for me," "Speak kindly about my body," "Try new activities that feel good")
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Support System

• Who can you talk to if you're struggling? (e.g., a trusted friend, family member, counselor, teacher)
  
  
  
• What resources can you turn to? (e.g., a book, a website, a positive podcast)
  
  
  

Part 4: My Reminders

• Write down one powerful statement or motto that will remind you to embrace your healthy body image journey.
  
  
  

Session 5 Reading: Celebrating All Bodies

The Beauty of Difference

In a world that often tries to tell us there's one ideal way to look, it's easy to forget a simple truth: bodies come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and abilities. This incredible variety is called body diversity, and it's something truly worth celebrating. Just like no two flowers are exactly alike, no two human bodies are identical, and that's a beautiful thing.

Think about it: wouldn't the world be boring if everyone looked the same? Our differences are what make us unique and interesting. They reflect our genetics, our heritage, our life experiences, and so much more. Embracing body diversity means recognizing and respecting these natural variations.

Challenging the