Ariel Winter has a modern family on and off screen -- and she's loving it. After the 15-year-old Modern Family star's sister Shanelle Gray was appointed her guardian last December, Winter tells Teen Vogue she's living a much happier and healthier life.
"I had body insecurities when I was younger. I still do. Every girl has insecurities -- mine were heightened at the time because my mother wasn't supportive," she shares. "Now, my sister is always making sure to tell me that I look beautiful . . . It's about learning to love yourself."
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Winter was removed from her mother Chrisoula "Crystal" Workman's home in November 2012 amid allegations of physical and emotional abuse. (Workman denied the allegations and the family agreed Winter would remain with her sister until the case is reviewed again in March).
The actress says she's really enjoying spending quality time with her 34-year-old sister.
"I didn't know my sister much growing up, and I wasn't really allowed to see her," Winter claims. "I know now that my sister is the type of person I'd aspire to grow up to be like. It's really interesting how close you can get with somebody in such a short period."
What is her home life like now?
"My life is definitely more normal -- and that'll help me grow up like I'm supposed to," she explains. "Like, I always wanted to be a dancer, and now I'm taking dance classes," she says. "And I didn't have many friends. It was all about work. Nowadays, my sister's like, 'You're supposed to have friends. You're supposed to go out on Friday and Saturday nights."
But they also make sure to spend a lot of time together. "Sunday we have family dinner," she shares. "It's just a different experience for me because I have more of a family life. I'm really happy."
This article originally appeared on Usmagazine.com: Ariel Winter on Her "Body Insecurities": "My Mother Wasn't Supportive"