GorillaOffTopic, Everything But Gorilla Trades

The Gorilla has talked about this topic before; obesity. But you may not be aware of how severely the problem is affecting our kids. Believe it or not, an alarming 1 out of every 5 kids is now overweight. Sure there are many factors which may contribute to this epidemic; genetics, activity level, and of course emotional issues, but parenting style comes into play as probably the biggest factor. Well, this fact certainly does not surprise the Gorilla. After all, this is the age of “permissive parenting.” Haven’t heard of it? Perhaps you are one yourself and don’t even know it.

Plain and simple a “permissive” parent is one that although loving and kind, does not place quite enough demands on their children. By “demands,” psychologists mean expectations for your kids about how to behave, be polite, and have limits such as learning how not to throw a tantrum when they don’t get what they want. And, by showing your kids “tough love” when they act inappropriately. If you think you are a “permissive” parent, beware! You may be warm and loving, but you are not teaching your child to manage their behavior.

This kind of parenting is directly linked to childhood obesity. Why? Well, simply because the child wants, and you give. After all, you don’t want conflict, do you?  Kids who eat healthy and have boundaries often have “authoritative” parents, who teach them to set limits for themselves. Now this style of parenting should not be confused with “authoritarian,” which means high demands with little or no love being shown. And then there are the “neglectful” parents. Well, the Gorilla certainly shouldn’t have to explain that one! Both of these parenting styles are also conducive to childhood obesity.

So, what is the most healthy way to parent? Well, studies have shown that, by far, the “authoritative” parents are the ones who have the healthiest kids- mind, body and spirit. They are taught not only to behave with respect, care, and concern for others, but also have a high sense of self-worth. They are kids who excel at school, relationships and life in general. They are also the physically healthiest kids, who know how to set boundaries with the food they eat. So, by teaching your kids to have clear limits, they benefit by being taught how to manage their desires throughout life.

So, how does a parent implement change? Start by telling your kids that they are valued and loved, but that they need to set limits for themselves when eating. You set the boundaries by serving healthy foods and limiting portion sizes and by simply saying “no” to certain junk foods and too many snacks. It may be hard at first, but they will follow suit on their own. In essence you are then giving them an “inner voice,”  which they can draw upon when they are eating too much or eating unhealthy foods. If you set limits for them, they will begin to set limits for themselves out of habit, and with your reinforcement of their good choices. They will ultimately lose weight and you will have taught them a life-long lesson; self control. They are your kids and they are our kids, and hey…aren’t they worth it?