November 2013 Summary

Childhood obesity has become a hot topic due to the prominent increase of it in today’s society. People are beginning to realize that something needs to be done, and fast. Studies have been conducted to look at the correlation between parent and child nutrition. This is a good start, however, there is much more that can and needs be done in the meantime. The sooner we start to see an increase in fruits and vegetables and a decrease in excessive weight gain the better. It is important that these kids maintain their weight and have a healthy relationship with food.

Q1: A mother and her daughter are referred to you by their family doctor. The mother was told by the doctor that her daughter is overweight for her age. You determine that the daughter is above the 95th percentile and the mother is also falls into the obese category.  The mother tells you that she sees no problem with her daughter’s weight. How would you address this situation? What suggestions could you make?

Kaitlin, Beth, and Alyssa all stated that it is best to not discuss weight loss methods with children. Emily also stated that she would never suggest a child go on a diet. Instead the consensus was to go into the situation in a completely different manner.

Emily and Carly suggested it was important to ask about the child’s current eating and exercise habits. With that knowledge they could make more helpful and fitting suggestions. Along with making suggestions, Lynetta and Beth stated that it is important to get to know the family and build rapport. This will help with the follow through of the suggestions and goals that are stated. 

Sarah, Courtney, and Aria posted that they would try to encourage good choices, increase activity levels, and come up with games to make things more fun. Carly suggested that MyPlate be used a good tool and example. Emily made also made a good point, if the child helps set the goals they are more likely to be excited about them and try hard to reach the goal.

Q2: The study found that toddlers are not meeting the recommended consumption of fruits, vegetables, and grains. What type of promotion program would you create to help increase knowledge and consumption of these items?

This question allowed for so many good ideas to come about. Kaitlin said that she would create an exposure program to help expose the children to fruits and vegetables. Emily suggested a taste test program to give the children a chance to try many different fruits and vegetables. Lynetta and Alyssa both suggested that promotion to the childcare providers would be helpful in increasing consumption.

Another great suggestion was to make things fun for kids. Emily, Lynetta, and Beth gave examples of ways to make it fun for the children involved. If the food looks fun or interesting or even pretty there is a much greater chance that a child will give it a try. 

Q3: The study found that a lower income level and a lower education level correlated with unhealthier eating habits.  What are some suggestions you could make to mothers who may be on a budget or do not know how to prepare many meals?

Across the board one of the most suggested things was to refer the mother’s to WIC and food banks. These are great resources that many people may not be aware of and are not utilizing. Emily, Beth, and Aria suggested that they help teach the parents how to shop. One idea was to go on a grocery store tour and show what items are the best to purchase for the money. Carly also pointed out that buying in bulk can help save money as well.

For those who may not know how to prepare meals some of the great suggestions were to give them easy recipes to try. Food demonstrations and cooking classes are also great tools to teach basic cooking skills. Also giving them recipes that utilize many of the items they receive from food banks and/or WIC.