Helping Children Lose Weight Without Losing Their Self-Esteem

2. Inform

Telling your child that she has a weight program needs to be done very tactfully and sensitively. Blurting out that she needs to diet, for example, would likely hurt her feelings and do damage to her self-esteem. Instead, introduce the subject gently by letting your child know how beautiful you think she is. Raise the subject of individual body size and the feeling of comfort in one's own skin. Rather than a discussion about dieting, focus on improving the family's eating and exercise habits to ensure better long-term health. For example, if your child's grandmother suffers from heart disease or diabetes, you can let your child know that what he does now to improve his health can make a difference later.