Schools in the UK have launched their own campaign to help combat the growing problem of childhood obesity by enacting a policy to both weigh and measure all students between the ages of 4 and 5 at the beginning of primary school and then again when they move on to secondary school at around 10 and 11 years of age. Schools in the US already have such a policy in place to weigh and measure students at this crucial age, but is it really making a difference?
There are concerns that overweight children may experience bullying in addition to being stigmatized. There are also concerns that the increased scrutiny may lead to some children developing eating disorders. Many people are of the opinion that it’s the parents responsibility to monitor their children’s weight, and that the funds set aside for this program could be put to better use with other programs.
What could a parent do to help their kids maintain a healthy weight?
It’s essential for parents to take the feelings of their children seriously. If they are experiencing bullying at school, parents will only add to the problem by nagging about weight issues at home, which will have the effect of increasing the child’s perception of failure and isolation.
A parent could be a positive role model by offering healthy meal alternatives instead of eating and offering junk foods; however, offering the occasional treat is crucial to avoid becoming borderline strict and further damaging the situation. If an entire family is educated in healthier eating and experiments with newer, healthier recipes, their children are less likely to feel picked on.
Avoiding concentrating on food is another crucial step to success. Even while this is a vital aspect of our daily lives and cannot be eluded, it would be wise to leave this out of the main conversations at home with the family. If a kid is persistently hearing about their own weight and the effects of overeating, that individual may acquire a negative outlook on food.
That is why it is important to concentrate on other matters, especially those aspects of life that are least stressful and offer fun and positive ways for a child to spend their time.
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