Having open and honest conversations with your kids about health and weight is important, but using the wrong words when discussing it can lead to serious health consequences in the future.
A study conducted by the University of Connecticut Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health found that words like “overweight,” “fat,” and “extremely obese,” made over one-third of children feel shameful and guilty, regardless of their body punch in (viaUS News).
Researchers found that talking about a healthy or “normal” weight with your child by pointing out where they have not yet measured up might not be the right approach.
Even if you have good intentions, it is easy to communicate criticism and judgment about your children’s bodies when discussing their weight.
Focus on the positives when discussing healthy habits with your kids
The phrase, “do as I say, not as I do,” doesn’t really apply when it comes to healthy eating and lifestyle habits.NPRsuggests modeling behaviors you want your children to learn with your own healthy habits.
Rather than subscribing to every fad diet you see on Instagram, encouragehealthy eatingby incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your family’s diet.
Instead of taking your child to your gym or placing them on your restrictive meal program, try enrolling them in activities that encourage physical activity and exercising as a family.
