Supporting Your Child with an Eating Disorder Over the Festive Period
š Christmas should be fun and relaxing, but when your child is struggling with an eating disorder it can also feel stressful and exhausting.
Here are some practical ways to help reduce pressure and support your family over the festive season:
āPlan non food based activities that everyone can enjoy together such as games, movies, walks, crafts, or outings.
āAgree on meals in advance and reassure your child that itās okay to eat something different.
āWhere possible, eat meals in familiar surroundings to help keep the environment calm and predictable.
āIf youāre seeing extended family, explain the main challenges ahead of time and kindly ask that there are no comments about food or eating.
āUse fun activities as motivation to complete meals, and encourage trying at least one small āfestiveā food item a day.
āBe realistic. If your child is in crisis, it is okay to reschedule social plans and protect your familyās wellbeing.
āMost importantly, be kind to yourself. This is a hard time for everyone. Take it one day at a time.
āBe hopeful and visualise a more positive and relaxing Christmas next year. ļæ¼
You are supporting your child in the hardest of circumstances, and that matters most.
š³I am a certified coach supporting parents of children with anorexia and other eating disorders.
Contact me for a free initial discussion.
