Kids can thrive at any size, says Jill Castle, a pediatric dietician, parent, and author of Kids Thrive at Any Size: How to Nourish Your Big, Small, or In-Between Child for a Lifetime of Health & Happiness.

Takeaways:

• Feeding kids in a healthy way can be challenging, but it’s important to raise children of all sizes to be physically healthy and emotionally well.
• Family culture plays a significant role in shaping children’s attitudes towards food and body size.
• Body neutrality focuses on the functionality of the body rather than its appearance, promoting acceptance and self-love.
• Growth charts are a tool for tracking a child’s growth over time, but they should not be used to define a child’s health or worthiness.
• Parents can advocate for their children by addressing biases and stigma related to body size, both within the extended family and in healthcare settings.
• Creating a positive meal environment and supporting children’s individual appetites can help build healthy eating habits.
• Parents should prioritize sleep, as it plays a crucial role in children’s growth and appetite regulation.
• Health should be measured by factors beyond weight, such as blood pressure, respiratory rate, and cardiovascular fitness.

Links we mentioned (or should have) in this episode:

jillcastle.com — Jill’s website

Kids Thrive at Any Size: How to Nourish Your Big, Small, or In-Between Child for a Lifetime of Health & Happiness — Jill’s latest book

The Nourished Child — Jill’s podcast

Picky Eaters, Family Meals, & Nutrition — ON BOYS episode

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