If you think talking to a kid about sex is awkward, wait until you have to tell them they’ve put on an unhealthy amount of weight.
According to the “Raising Fit Kids” national study, talking about being overweight beat out sex, drugs, alcohol and cigarette smoking as the most difficult conversation topic for parents to have with their teens.
Understandably so. Who wants to tell their kids they are too fat, conversely, what kid wants to hear that from their parents?
However awkward the conversation may be, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t happen. Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in this country, yet the study found most parents aren’t talking about it.
More than one-in-five parents said they have never raised the issue with their child despite being very aware of the immediate and long-term health risks of being overweight.
Sad if you ask us! Communication is key in ANY healthy relationship, so don’t be afraid to talk to your kids about important issues that may affect their lifespan.
Much like smoking cigarettes, there are a variety of life-threatening illnesses that can arise after eating too much and exercising too little!
Teach your kids about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle when their young, so they don’t have to learn the hard way when they’re older!
[Image via AP Images.]