The ‘Size-Zero’ Fad

Children Feel Encouraged when Parents Join them for Physical Activity

‘Size-zero’ fantasy has entered the minds of school-going children, even 6-year-old girls. These children are more worried about their body image and weight gain than their studies and games.

There is no need for a healthy child or the child’s parent to focus all attention on weight. Unhealthy weight loss can curb a child’s growth and result in other problems such as eating disorders.

Though social media and TV promos might influence a child’s behavior, a kid’s first role model is his/her mom and dad. Be prudent to have a positive impact on your child’s body and mind alike.

•          Never emphasize on weight or body size. Instead, focus on developing a positive eating relationship with your child.
•          Do not make negative or sarcastic comments about weight, body shape or size. It can be about your own weight or that of another person.
•          Never compare your child and ask him/her to conform to another person’s body size or shape.
•          Try to stay fit and maintain a healthy body weight to set a good example for your child. Refrain from fad diets.
•          Make it a habit to regularly engage your little one in physical activity for strong muscles and coordination.
•          Upbringing your little one to be a person with abundant self-confidence, self-esteem and social skills is the right way to a healthy relationship with food.

For further information on healthy body weight or healthy diet loss programs, please contact a nutritionist/dietitian at www.firsteatright.com.