Your Child Is Not Their Weight: Parenting in a Size-Obsessed World

The compassionate debut guide from pediatrician Skelton explains how parents can navigate their children’s weight issues without instilling in them an obsession with size. Commonly used measurements like body mass index may not accurately reflect a child’s overall health, Skelton explains, adding that overly focusing on the size of a child’s body as the key indicator of well-being can lead to yo-yo dieting, poor body image, disordered eating, and malnutrition. Skelton recommends parents “affirm and love all bodies” by modeling body-positive behaviors, such as avoiding negative self-talk and reinforcing gratitude for what bodies make possible (“Glad I made it up the stairs today! Thank you, legs!”). Building structure around activities and food is another way for parents to foster healthy habits; for instance, limiting screen time can help encourage a balance of sedentary and physical activities without being overly restrictive, while prioritizing family mealtimes can encourage kids to take an active interest in nutrition and try new things. For parents dealing with additional issues—picky eating, autism, ADHD, and more—Skelton advises against pushing, pressuring, or bribing children to eat and instead promotes a continued mix of structure and love. Skelton has constructed a nuanced and practical road map for prioritizing children’s overall well-being. Parents will find this a boon. (Mar.)