Teasing is a part of growing up, but its commonality doesn't take the sting away when a mother tries to comfort a child in tears. It becomes even more difficult to get through when the teasing is the result of a medical condition such as childhood obesity. Kids become so self conscious from being called "fat" that parents often turn to more extreme measures such as weight loss camps.
Instructions
1. Select a camp that focuses on fun. Although you're sending your child to a camp with a purpose, inquire about the portion of the camp's program intended for relaxation and enjoyable activities. If your child attends a camp without a good balance, he will not want to be there and will not get the most out of his experience.
2. Find a camp with the right mix of activities. A weight loss camp for obese children will naturally place a great deal of emphasis on increasing exercise through athletic activities. The camp should also offer non-athletic activities designed to appeal to children with all sorts of interests and gifts, such as music, theater and arts and crafts.
3. Ask the counselors about group sessions. Children need to know that they're not alone in facing their obesity and group talks can accomplish this goal by providing a safe environment for them to express their feelings about their weight. Just being with other obese children will make them feel more "normal" in knowing there are others going through the same type of experience.
4. Share your concerns about long term goals. At the beginning, group sessions and having fun are great ways to integrate your child into camp life, while allowing her to confront her weight issues one day at a time. However, you need to ask the program directors how they will teach your child to become ultimately responsible for herself in order to encourage weight loss success long after camp is over.
5. Inquire about the menu. Most people will take for granted that the menu offerings are nutritionally balanced, and they probably are, but asking about the meal plan should be on your list of questions. In addition, be sure that the portions are controlled, since your child's view of what a healthy portion looks like is most likely wrong.
6. Learn whether the camp offers classes in nutrition and cooking. If your child is old enough to attend a weight loss camp, he is old enough to learn read food labels, make healthy food choices and prepare a nutritional snack after school. This aspect of the camp experience will assist your child in gaining control over his eating habits.
Tags: your child, weight loss, camp with, children will, group sessions, loss camp, obese children