According to the American Academy of Pediatrics there are 25 million children who are overweight in the United States.1 Do you have a kid who’s overweight? Are you concerned about it? I’m sure you’re wondering, “How in the world do I talk to my kids about it without pushing them into anorexia or bulimia?” Well, here are a few suggestions. “Bring it up gently.” Maybe you talk about it when they complain about their weight. There are a lot of helpful websites. Most suggest that you “keep it kid-friendly.” Say things like, You can help your weight by playing at the playground more or less computer games. You can also help by being a good example—eating right, being more active. Sometimes actions speak louder than words.

This Parent Minute is based in part on “How to Talk to Your Child about Losing Weight,” Parents.com

1According to 2008 data from an article by Dr. Leona Cuttler for AAP News, using data from C. L. Ogden’s 2006 work in JAMA on obesity

Suggested Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20