How do I handle my 11 year olds weight gain??
OK, I understand this problem very well.
Someone in your family who is closer to her age,who also has a weight problem should have this talk with her also, it will make the conversation feel less like she is being 'told off' by her mum.
Try explaining to her that she is not 'fat', but she is 'chubby' and if she carries on eating the way she is then she will have a serious problem and explain some of the things you have had to go through.
To be honest I think that if she can see your struggle,going through surgery and other members in your families struggles with weight. She will have noticed how 'fat' people are treated in society,she knows this. You should do your best to stop this before it gets too bad,she is young so her habits CAN be changed.
Weight problems are so personal and nothing will change her habits unless SHE wants to. Making her feel guilty or uncomfortable eating in your presence will make her eat secretly which is worse and can get completely out of control.
This is not your fault or hers.
I am saying this because I have been and am still in a similar situation. The best thing you can do is never personally buy/feed her bad foods, and support her,beacuse if the problem does escalate,she will need the support of her mum more than anyone else.
Hope this helps :-)
on 3/31/12 9:41 am
