Hello parents, I urge you to refrain from discussing your child’s weight, especially in light of the pandemic. We’ve been navigating this global crisis for over a year, and while some aspects of life have returned to normal, many challenges remain. Our children, still unvaccinated and wearing masks in public, have missed out on activities they once loved and have faced a year of unusual schooling. They have experienced significant upheaval, and it’s essential to acknowledge their resilience in these trying times.
During the months spent at home, many kids may have snacked more, been less active, or simply changed their routines. If you’ve noticed your child, particularly one who may have already been on the heavier side, gaining a few extra pounds, it’s important to approach this subject with care.
As someone who has been on both sides of the weight spectrum, I plead with you to allow your child to feel comfortable in their own skin for as long as possible. The outside world can be harsh, often pushing the narrative that fat bodies are not acceptable. It’s a pervasive message that is deeply ingrained in our culture, and it’s difficult to escape diet culture’s reach.
Please, don’t be the catalyst for your child feeling less joy and freedom in their body. Avoid bringing up their weight changes, questioning their food choices, or making comments about their appearance. Restricting their diet is not the answer.
Your concerns about your child’s weight may stem from your own discomfort with body size. Society has conditioned us to equate thinness with health and happiness, but this is a carefully constructed narrative designed to sell weight-loss products. The truth is, many of us are thriving at various sizes, and being overweight doesn’t mean a life of unhappiness.
I know it’s hard not to worry about your child’s weight; you’re an adult, and you’re entitled to your concerns. However, it’s crucial to gain perspective. Your child has endured a global trauma, and if they’ve gained weight, they are not alone—millions of others have as well.
I also gained weight during the pandemic. Why? Because I found comfort in cooking and baking with my family when other sources of joy were limited. My body reacted naturally to these changes, and as life has returned to some normalcy, so has my weight. My body shifts with my habits, and that’s normal.
Consider the implications of making a big deal about your child’s weight. If they lose the extra pounds after you’ve drawn attention to it, you risk teaching them that they are only acceptable when they are thin. Conversely, if they remain heavier, they may internalize a sense of disappointment in themselves.
As a parent, it is your duty to provide unconditional love. If you convey that your feelings about their weight influence your love for them, it can be damaging. It’s never too late to change your approach.
Before reacting to this message, let me clarify: I’m not suggesting you ignore any significant changes in your child’s weight. If there are concerns that need to be addressed, do so privately with their healthcare provider; ensuring your child receives proper medical care is vital. At home, however, encourage a diet rich in nutritious foods and foster a positive relationship with movement for enjoyment rather than obligation.
Confront your own biases about weight and allow your children to be kids. They deserve the freedom to exist happily in their bodies, even if their size makes you uncomfortable.
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Summary
In light of the pandemic, it’s crucial for parents to avoid negative discussions about their child’s weight. Children have faced significant challenges and deserve to feel comfortable in their bodies. Rather than focusing on weight, promote a healthy relationship with food and physical activity. Parents should provide unconditional love and support, ensuring that their child’s self-esteem is not tied to their body size.