Has your child ever come home in tears because someone made fun of her weight? Are you concerned because you know your child is overweight or obese, and at risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other weight-related conditions? If so, you can deal with the problem in a way that protects your child’s self-esteem while motivating him/her to make healthy lifestyle changes.
Here are some suggestions:
1. Do not permit your family members or friends to comment on your child’s weight in front of them, or to call them names like Porky, Fatty, etc. If necessary, take the person aside in private and explain that name calling or commenting on someone’s weight does not motivate them to change, it just makes them feel worse.
2. If your child is upset because someone made fun of him or treated him badly due to his weight, explain that people often don’t realize how hurtful their comments can be. They also may have low self-esteem themselves, and only feel better by making fun of someone else.
3. Tell your child how special he is and how proud you are of him. Mention specific positive qualities that your child has, such as intelligence, great sense of humor, compassion for others, creativity, etc. Tell him that you love him and will be proud of him whether he weighs 50 pounds or 500 pounds.
4. Tell your child that you are concerned about her health, because certain health problems are tied to poor eating habits and lack of exercise. Ask if she would like your assistance in improving her health, since all family members would benefit from healthier habits.
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