With all the focus on weight today it is not surprising that
children are starting to look at their bodies at earlier ages.
Children as young as 7 years of age are asking parents about
their bodies. Where are they getting it from? Well, I would
imagine television, magazines and the internet are some of the
places. However, as we were all children once, it is also coming
from other children. I can still remember well kids making fun
of other children. While I never participated in it, I was a
recipient of it, so I know how it feels. While mine wasn’t
weight related, it still hurts. From what I am seeing and
reading it is even nastier and more prevalent in our schools
today.
So, what do you say to your child when they ask you if you think
they are overweight, fat, or whatever adjective was used by
another child when taunting them. As hard as it is, you will
need to convey to your child that everyone is different. How we
look and grow will depend on how we take care of our bodies.
Explain to them how body types are dependent upon family, eating
habits and physical activity. Also be sure to tell them that
they are and will be growing and changing until their teens. If
you have pictures of yourself or others in childhood and then
adulthood show them those pictures to give them an idea of
changes that occur.
Please be sure to talk to your child and do so carefully and
seriously about this. It is very very important that your child
realize he must eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, to take his/her
vitamins and to drink their milk. Don’t just ignore this
discussion. Children are growing up faster and faster today and
becoming aware much earlier in life of their body image. How
children and adults view themselves is one of the classic signs
of anorexia and other eating disorders.
If you feel you are not qualified to handle their questions,
please consult a professional to do so.
Copyright 2005, DeFiore Enterprises
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