Fat Parents and Fat Kids

One of the major reasons Mr. and I wanted to get fit in the first place was to be healthy role models for our children. We didn't want to be the "fat mom" or "fat dad," and we didn't want to raise kids who became the "fat kids" either.

We've been very glad that our daughter, so far, shows no signs of becoming a "fat kid." She's only 3, but at her recent annual checkup, she placed in the 50th percentile of weight for her age group. No surprise, since she is quite active (of her own accord) and eats like a bird. We try to emphasize with her how tasty nutritious foods are and how treats like ice cream and cookies are a "sometimes thing." Also, we give her plenty of opportunities to run around and do her kid thing (though I must admit, she also watches some TV most days -- we're not perfect).

Anyhow, I found this article from Reuters Health interesting because of my vigilance about fat parents/fat kid issues. It basically says heavier moms tend to overlook their own child's overweight status, probably because of their own emotional weight hangups. I can see that.

But I wonder, when the doctor says your child is "off the charts" for weight, how do you explain that away? I guess there are always excuses handy -- but it's sad that your own weight problems as a parent can negatively affect your child's well-being too. Mr. and I don't want to let that happen, so we're going to continue working hard to keep our kids healthy -- and ourselves, too.