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Community Corner

Moms Talk: Kids on Diets?

Check out what moms in your neck of the woods are chatting about this week, then give us your two cents.

Trying to find an answer when it comes to the most important job—raising kids.

QUESTION: My 9-year old son has recently been dubbed "chubby" by some of his peers. His doctor isn't concerned, but I was taken aback when a few of my friends suggested I put him on a diet. Isn't that sending a bad message to our kids to have them dieting at such a young age? Or are they right?

ANSWER: You are his mother and know him best. If your son is eating healthily and staying active, I wouldn't worry so much. We all remember the "chubby" kid in fifth grade who turned out to be the high school hunk. I don't think "diet" is a word kids need to be associated with; most adults hate that word, so why should our kids think positively about the message it sends? Instead, talk about making healthy choices and have him help you select veggies and fruits at the grocery store, or plan a family game of football at the local park. And tell those moms to keep their two cents in their pocket!

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