Would you be worried about this? perception of "weight issues" in a 8yo

[SlightlyMadStirrup]

OK

DTD1 - who (apart from her sister) probably has one of the lowest BMI's in her class.

She occassionally brings up that she is "fat" and sticks out her tummy for effect.
A few times I have recalled her saying she doesn't want to be fat.
Today - she was asking if everyone has to have a baby......apparently she doesn't want a baby because she "doesn't want to get fat". I don't think she was just referring to teh pg either - I think she was thinking hte "after-effects" .

She eats well - and there are no problems at all on that front - it is all "talk" ATM.

Part of me thinks it is just talk - but I recall seeing a discussion with one of teh BB contestants recently who described the fact that her anorexia stemmed from perceptions that started at about 8.

I know I am probably worrying about nothing...but just wondered how you would handle it - would you do anything (other than reassure her that she is not fat etc.)

I'd imagine that maybe other people at school have been complaining about "being fat" and she wants to join in. I have had it recently from 6.5yr old. I've ignored it at the time, and when she is dressed have complimented her on looking lovely. I'm not sure if this is the best way, but not really sure, like you, how else to deal with it.

Maybe chat to her? Ask why she thinks she is fat, reassure her that you don't think she is etc.

Hmm dunno.

One possible problem is that her twin is sool skinny that you can see her ribs. It could be that she is comparing to her sister.

Again it is not through a problem - it is how they are (they were only 2lb and 2lb1oz at birth and very long - so I think they are both going to be tall and thin ).

Maybe you could focus (in a constructive waqy of course) on her twin's need to gain a bit? I don't really know, but I expect twins are probably used to be compared and therefore predisposed to a bit of competition.

I would focus on helping both twins obtain/maintain a positive self image.

It could come down to other kids, any difference between the two could have been commented on........just an idea