Broaching the subject of weight with a child is a process that must be carried out with great sensitivity. It's a minefield where poorly chosen words can hurt self-esteem of the child and negatively influence their relationship to food and exercise for many years. Understanding the appropriate time and manner to talk about this topic is essential to helping your child adopt a healthy and balanced life.
Understand the importance of timing
The “when” is as important as the “how” when it comes to talking to a child about weight. The topic should never be brought up as a result of a derogatory remark of a peer or a specific incident that might have embarrassed the child. These moments charge the situation withnegative emotions and can make the conversation much more difficult.
A gentler approach is to choose a quiet, neutral time when the child feels safe and open to honest discussion. So it won't be after a heavy meal or when he refuses to eat something, perhaps choose to do it during a leisurely walk, when you are talking about life and health in a more general way.
I remember a time with my eight-year-old nephew, Lucas, when we had a very productive conversation about food and health. It was during a walk in the forest. Watching the squirrels run and the birds fly, he asked me, "Uncle, why do the squirrels climb so quickly?" » I took this opportunity to talk about the importance of eat food that give us energy and strength, using squirrels as an example, without ever really talking about “weight”. Lucas had listened attentively, captivated by the idea of running as fast as the squirrels.
How to approach the subject with empathy
When the time comes to talk about weight, the key is to avoid any form of blame or shame. You need to present weight as a health issue, not appearance. It is essential to make the child understand that you are there to support and help them, and not to judge them.
Use positive words and encouragement
It is essential to use a positive language and focus on health and well-being rather than on the weight itself. Talk about eating foods that “make you strong” and “help you grow” rather than dieting or restricting. Encourage himphysical activity talking about fun and games, rather than formal exercise.
I remember seeing a mother in the park, talking to her son and saying, "You know choosing fruit instead of too many sweets is like choosing the right fuel for a super fast car." It allows you to run, play and be super strong! » Her son, with bright eyes, immediately asked for a banana when he came home.
Listen and be sensitive
Before giving advice or making suggestions, listen to what your child has to say about their own body and their feelings. It is necessary to acknowledge their emotions and show them that their opinions are important. This can give you clues about the best approaches to follow.
For example, once while talking with my daughter about why she didn't want to go to the pool like before, she admitted to me that she felt uncomfortable in a swimsuit in front of her friends. It opened my eyes to the fact that she was more aware of her body than before and it guided our conversation towards the importance of feel good about yourself and take care of yourself.
Encourage a positive body image
It is fundamental to promote a positive body image, showing the child that each person is unique and that diversity is beautiful. Talk about different body shapes and sizes and how each person has their own strengths.
One day, while looking at family photos, my son commented, “Dad, you were thin when you were young!” » Rather than focusing on the “thin,” I laughed and replied, “Yes, and now I'm stronger to carry you on my shoulders!” » This had helped to transform an observation about weight into a discussion of the different ways bodies can be strong and useful.
Integrate health into daily life
Rather than making big sudden changes, incorporate small, healthy improvements into daily life that can help your child adjust your weight in a natural and stress-free way.
Cooking together
Invite your child to cook with you. This can be a wonderful way to talk about ingredients, where they come from, and why they are healthy. It turns food into a shared experience rather than a source of conflict.
I often think about that time Lucas and I made pizza together. When choosing the toppings, I explained to him why too much cheese might make him lethargic, while colorful vegetables would make him energetic. He had chosen to add more peppers and less pepperoni, so he was proud of his choice.
Fun physical activities
Find physical activity that your child really likes. This could be dancing, cycling, or even active video games. The idea is to move and have fun, not to count the calories burned.
When we discovered the Geocaching, a kind of outdoor treasure hunt, it had changed our routine. Lucas had never been very sporty but the idea of finding treasure had motivated him to walk a lot more and, without even realizing it, he had become more active and better health.
Non-judgmental education
Teach your child to read food labels and understand what they are eating, do it in a way that is not intimidating. The goal is to make them curious and informed, not anxious.
I remember a visit to the supermarket with my niece where we played a game of finding the food with the least sugar. She quickly managed to identify the sugars on the labels and was surprised (even a little disappointed) to discover the hidden sugar in her favorite cereals. It was an important lesson but always in the spirit of discovery and play.
In short
Talking about weight with your child is a conversation that should be shrouded in understanding, empathy and a touch of humor when possible. This is an opportunity toteach health values, well-being and self-love, rather than just numbers on a scale.
By handling this issue delicately, by listening and adopting beneficial habits on a daily basis, you will support your child in exploring their relationship with their body. This approach will help to consolidate his self-confidence and guide him towards a harmonious and fulfilled existence.
