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Home › Articles › Discipline › Flexible Parents, Fit Kids?

Flexible Parents, Fit Kids?

The Link Between Discipline Style and Weight

By Kelly Burgess

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In her work, Levine follows the Enneagram model of personality, which she applies to parenting style. Regardless of the method, Levine does agree that rigid parenting styles can have negative consequences. But she also points out that this is often because the parent is a poor model for the children.

"A very controlling parent with a lot of rules for the children may indulge in yelling and screaming and yet won't tolerate that from their child," Levine says. "A parent may be very rigid and yet expect their child to always be compliant. The messages are mixed, and it can lead to fear or withdrawl in the children. Some children may even come back with their own anger, and then it becomes a very volatile situation."

Levine believes that parents can evaluate and change their parenting style. For controlling parents, she says the first step is to step back and realize that not everything in the house needs to be their way. In addition, Levine recommends these parenting tips for parents of very young children:

  • Make decisions about what to control based on physical safety.
  • Provide opportunities for the child to be creative without being critical.
  • Allow children to make messes in the context of play and creativity.
  • Let them help around the house without expecting things to be done as an adult would do them.
  • Provide a balance of foods; don't ban "bad" foods, but teach moderation and encourage healthy choices.
  • Model positive behaviors and healthy food and lifestyle choices.

"The key is balance and trying to be aware when you don't have that balance," Levine says. "Rather than thinking that you have to control your children and their choices, just enjoy the parenting because these early years go very quickly. Cherish yourself and your children."


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