AboutLeslie Truex Expertise I am a parent of two, but also I'm a social worker with over 15 year experience working with children and families. I can provide many tips and techniques to help with child behavior, interventions for specific behavioral issues, ideas to help children through difficult times such as divorce or grief, hints on keeping the family running smoothly, and tips for developing confident, happy children.
Experience I have a master's in social work and over 15 years experience working with children and families. I have worked in schools, public health, mental health and adoption agencies providing parent education courses and children's groups.
Question my daughter is 11 years old and is overly concerned about her weight she is not
over weight but she is obsessing to the point where I am beginning get worried
can you offer advice
Answer Hi Vinny,
This is an age were often girls begin to notice the focus on beauty and weight. The hear it at school and on TV.
The best way to keep weight and other superficial issues from taking over is to keep her self-esteem high and get her active in sports or other physical activity. Try to avoid activities that have a weight focus like gymnastics or dance. Studies show that girls who are involved in sports have healthier attitudes about their bodies and higher self esteem.
Counteract her focus on weight by reminding her of other good qualities she has such as her grades or talents, etc.
If it gets bad enough that she'd dieting or always putting herself down, consider getting counseling.
