School Height And Weight Checks

Talking To My Child About Weight

Should I talk to my child about the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) results letter?

You know your child best and whether telling them about the NCMP information you have been sent is the right thing. There is no evidence that talking about the results sensitively with your child will cause problems in the future.

Take your time to think about how you want to handle this – there is no rush to decide what to do next. Have a look at the information on JustOneNorfolk as your first step.

Remember these results are not the end of the world. There are many small steps you can take to make a big difference to your child’s well being – and there is plenty of support and information to help you.

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Talking To Your Child

It is important your child is not made to feel they have done something wrong. Problems with weight are common and it is no ones fault. Often a ‘big talk’ is not needed, several small chats about a tough subject are easier on everyone.

If you do choose to talk to your child, here are some tips that might help make the conversation easier;

Find the right time – often when you are doing something else together.
Talk about weight or lifestyle when the chance comes up. This could be talking about healthy food, meals or exercise, while doing an activity together.
Ask your child how they feel about their diet and exercise – are there changes they want to make?
Turn the conversation into a positive. Talk about becoming healthier and feeling better, rather than about losing weight.

Next Steps

Make a plan together as a family. Making changes to be healthier should be seen as something positive the whole family can get on board with - and not be focused on just your child.
Reassure your child that it is normal to find making any change hard.
Look together at our ideas for keeping motivated to help keep the whole family going.

Who can help?

If you are concerned about your child’s weight or eating habits and feel you need support, you can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.

Alternatively you can go to see your GP to discuss concerns.

You can speak to other Norfolk parents and carers by clicking our online community forum below.