It is said that teenagers are experts at finding ways to rebel against their parents. While your teen may not show it, they probably secretly want to impress you with their new found independence. Why not help them lose the weight they so desperately need to shed? The following are some helpful tips to get you started.
Be Creative
There are numerous ways in which your teen can shed off those extra pounds. One option is to get creative with their diet, perhaps introducing more eco-friendly and healthful options for them to choose from. If they have special dietary needs – such as needing to avoid gluten or dairy products – then they may need a little help from you in coming up with a meal plan. Being innovative and resourceful can also spark an interest in cooking for your teen. Why not have a themed dinner where they learn to prepare a range of healthy options in a fun and interactive environment? This will not only increase their interest in cooking but also provide them with new skills that they can put toward good use in the future.
Be A Role Model
What teenage girl doesn’t look up to Hollywood royalty or pop stars? Whether it’s a TV show, movie, or music video, the entertainment industry serves as the ultimate role model for any girl. If your teen isn’t sure what a proper diet consists of, then showing them that it’s not necessarily Hollywood-approved may be the push they need to get started on the right foot. While it may be tempting to throw a party for your teen’s birthday and serve up some unhealthy snacks and drinks, allowing them to indulge may lead to serious problems down the line. Set a good example for them by being a conscious consumer and opting for healthier options whenever you can.
Being a role model is not only about what you say but also about what you do. One of the best ways for your teen to lose weight and inspire others to follow suit is to be seen as a positive role model. Take the lead in encouraging a healthy lifestyle, and they may just follow your lead. Set a good example for them by taking the stairs rather than the elevator when you go to work or school, by walking instead of driving, and by being a vegetarian or vegan for a day. All of these things will not only help you maintain a healthy weight but will also make a lasting impact on your teen.
Consider The Whole Family
If you’re determined to help your teen lose weight, then it might be best to start by considering the whole family. Why not make it a joint effort and get the whole group participating in a weight loss program? The benefits of participating in a family-based program are countless and include improved nutrition, increased energy levels, and even better sleep – which is crucial for a teenager who is constantly evolving and changing. If you think that your teen could stand to lose some weight, then you may want to consider the benefits of participating in a family-based program. It’s a win-win situation.
You might also want to explore options for your teen outside of the family. Perhaps there’s a friend or classmate who could benefit from a friendly chat about ways they could lose weight? Or perhaps an online community or chatroom could be of assistance? There are many different options for your teen to find support and friendship, so don’t be afraid to look for help where they’ll get the most out of it.
Be Brave
One of the best things that could help your teen lose weight is if you have the courage to be more than just their parent. Why not be the change that you want to see in the world? It may be scary for you to confront your teen about their weight, but it may also be the best thing for them. Start by being brave enough to ask them if they want to lose some weight. Don’t be afraid to give them the gift of honesty. Acknowledge that you want to see them become healthier and that you’re not judging them. It may be hard to accept, but it’s ultimately for their own good.
If they’ve been keeping some secrets from you, then this could be a starting point for a new, more open relationship. Honesty is always the best policy and may be the key to building a stronger bond with your teen. Be brave enough to show them that you care and want the best for them by being the role model that they could look up to. Be a stronger, more confident parent than they could ever imagine, and together you could change the world.