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A D V I C E A N D I N F O R M A T I O N : P A R E N T I N G A D V I C E
Weighty issues: How to help your child have a healthy body and image
As parents, we naturally want our children to be a healthy size – not too heavy or too thin – but just how do you talk about this sensitive subject without making your child feel even more self-conscious about his or her changing body?
Body image and self image go hand in hand, particularly for adolescents. Overweight young people may already be suffering from low self esteem and peer harassment. Also, overeating or eating too little can be symptoms of emotional issues, including stress and depression.
If parents suspect these underlying causes are at play, they may want to seek professional help for their child or talk to school counselors, particularly if harassment is involved. Counseling can help young people and their families work toward improved self esteem and healthier coping.
Meanwhile, parents can play it safe by focusing not on weight, but on health.
Of course, one of the best ways we can instill healthy habits in our children is to practice healthy habits ourselves. Eat and provide a variety of fresh, nutritious foods at home, try to limit TV time, and get active as a family. A simple walk through the neighborhood is not only good, no-cost exercise, it’s a great opportunity to talk and bond.
Here are some other suggestions:
- Counter the model-thin images your children see in the media with a healthy dose of reality. (Female models weigh about 23 percent less than the average woman, who comes in all shapes and sizes.)
- Prepare your pre-adolescent son or daughter for the normal changes, including weight gain, they will experience in puberty. Stress that people have different body types and develop and grow at different rates.
- Try to compliment your child on his or her talents and accomplishments instead of their appearance.
- Let your children make their own decisions about food, but make sure you have plenty of healthy options on hand. The key is moderation.
- Try to eat meals together as a family, and limit eating and snacking to the kitchen and dining rooms. Avoid eating in front of the television.
- Consult your doctor if you notice a significant weight loss in your child or a sudden, excessive weight gain, which could signal a medical problem or eating disorder.
- Overweight children know better than anybody that they are overweight. Accept them for who they are while offering support, understanding and encouragement.
‘Parenting Lifeline’ is a monthly column in the Bellevue Reporter newspapers by YES Executive Director Patti Skelton-McGougan. For more information call 425-747-4937 or ChristianB@YouthEastsideServices.org
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