Resources:  Or helpful thoughts

 

                         and material

 

 

Practical Tips for Families

 

 

To Prevent

 

 

Weight Related Disorders[i]

 

 

 

1.              Remember: there is no such thing as a “joke” about someone’s body.

Research shows that teasing and harassment contribute to the development of eating disorders.

 

2.              Set a good example through your own actions.

Demonstrate care and respect for your body.  If you need help with your own relationship with food, see a doctor or a nutritionist.  Let you child know that you take yourself and your health seriously and that your goal is to eat healthfully and create a healthier lifestyle.

 

3.              The same goes for words!

Never put yourself down for how you look in front of your son or daughter.  Don’t tolerate anyone else putting you down either.  Try not to greet friends with comments about appearance.  Instead, practice taking people seriously for what they think, say, and do.

 

4.              Wear clothes that express who you are, regardless of your size and shape.

Don’t let your body shape keep you from doing things you want because you don’t look the part.

 

5.              Keep an eye out for weightest messages in the media with your daughter or son.  Name, discuss, and refute them.  Girls and boys need to hear parental critique ( and outrage) again and again.

 

6.              Encourage and support your children in a sport and other activities that give them the experience of living fully and masterfully in their body.  Try something new with your children and build competency together.

 

7.              Take stock of your cupboards.

Are they filled with foods from all food groups?  What kind of snack are on hand?  Supply your kitchen with a variety of low cost, high health foods.

 

8.              Provide regular family meals.

A rule of thumb for meal times: parents are responsible for what, where, and when a child eats; the child is responsible for how much.

 

9.              Avoid using food as a reward or punishment

Find ways other than shopping or eating to celebrate your   small victories on any given day.  When your child is upset, try going for a walk, or making a cup of tea, and talking together – rather than going out to eat.  Your time is one of the most nourishing resources you can offer your child. 

 

10.         Let your child know that you love him or her no matter what he or she weighs.

         Listen to your child’s opinions, show appreciation for her uniqueness, and as often as possible 

         allow her to take the lead.  If you are worried about her weight, talk to her

         pediatrician or a nutritionist.