The effects of childhood obesity on learning

There are many things that can create learning problems for children. Learning disabilities, medical disorders, and stress may play a role. Also obesity.

Harassment: There are many things that can make a child a target for bullies. Most of us had a run-in with them for something. He wore glasses and was skinny, so they called me four eyes and a little bean. The same occurs with the overweight and/or obese child.

This taunt creates a focus on rectifying the matter or a resort to comfort foods…or both. It is difficult to concentrate in class if your mind is occupied with other activities, such as avoiding bullies.

Self-esteem: The overweight child can see it in the mirror. It’s obvious when it’s time to shop for school clothes. It is whispered in the playground. This inhibits self-esteem. Those with low self-esteem think that they will never be able to do anything right and may think “why bother?” when it comes to class.

afraid to ask: In addition to the first two problems, an overweight child may be afraid to ask questions in class. They don’t want to draw more attention to themselves. Without asking questions, you miss out on a vital opportunity to learn something, and it will show up in your test scores.

How can we help? Schools are now cracking down on children who bully. There have been too many children who try or succeed in committing suicide. If you see a child being bullied or if the victim is your child, talk to the school.

Find something the child can do well. Get them to commit to it. Congratulate them when they reach a goal. Correct gently when they need it. Having a talent or skill can help a lot with self-esteem.

Talk to teachers, especially in classes where grades are low. Look for ways the child can learn what she needs to learn without drawing attention to that child. This also works in other areas; I know this because one of our sons didn’t want to ask questions in class. The teacher helped me help her.

While we want our overweight children to reach their proper weight, we must also focus on their education. Weight loss is not fast and time is ticking at school.