We
can discuss statistics about kids who are different from the rest of
their family and their peers. We can talk about recommendations from
doctors, nutritionists, and Dr. Phil about how to get those kids back
into whatever it is they consider to be "normal." But when it
comes right down to it, what is important is the quality of life your
child experiences. We'll leave those other conversations for the rest of
this web site. This is about the reality of growing up as a fat child,
about what causes great pain and what brings real joy.
Each
of the names on the left is a link to the personal experiences and
thoughts of adults who grew up as fat children. Some of the stories are
terribly sad; others are about kids who were pretty happy and felt
accepted and nourished by friends and family. Most are a mix of
experiences that are common threads in the lives of people who are
judged negatively by our culture based purely on their size.
All of
them are written and presented here to give us a better understanding of
what it feels like to be a child who is different. Read them and
consider not the differences that bring on the experiences, but the
impact those experiences create. Then think Am I protecting my child
from these consequences? Am I, myself, causing problems?
The
most important thing to consider is how to raise a healthy, happy, confident child who knows
she is loved. Your words,
attitudes, and actions can make a difference, but not necessarily in the
way you intend. Read. Think. This is very
important. What is your goal with your child . . . to help them or to
save yourself the embarrassment of having a fat child?
Now here's a sad truth
nothing in any of these stories is unusual. The adults these kids have
become have varying degrees of success and happiness in their lives.
Some are amazing people who have overcome terrible parenting. I can tell
you this . . . the ones who have thrived are the individuals who have
had supportive friends and family who love them unconditionally.
Unconditional love and acceptance are the most important factors not
size.
If you have a story
you would like to share, please write to us at JudyS@SizeWise.com.
