Chats with Ashlie RN

Click here for a World Time Converter.  You can get to the new chatroom from the Parents Area as well.  Note: Ashlie is not able to engage in private conversations in the chat room.
 
Each week the chats are about a different topic. Here are typical topics:

NOTICE: THE ASHLIE_RN PARENT CHAT HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED UNTIL JAN. 2011.  If you would like the Parent Chats with Ashlie_RN restored, please email:       

Weight Problem vs. Eating Problem - Overweight kids (and adults) often refer to themselves as having a "weight problem". But a more accurate term is "eating problem" since over-eating is the biggest contributor to gaining excess pounds. Let's explore the reasons why kids consume more than they need.

Portions Sizes: Is it too much or not enough? - Portions sizes have increased over the years, contributing to the the obesity epidemic. But cutting back too many calories, especially in a growing child, can cause problems as well. Come learn and chat about identifying the right portion sizes for kids and teens.

Role Models - What can parents do to help their children lose weight? A poll of kids' opinions on our website shows that "parents being role models" was the overwhelming choice to help reverse the growing overweight problem in children and teens. We'll find ways in which parents can be role models in their home to increase the success of their kids losing weight.

What does overweight or obese mean? - Is your child overweight or obese? Medically overweight? Socially overweight? We'll talk about what all these terms mean and how to tell when these terms may apply in your kids.

Food Addiction - Most people readily acknowledge the powerful force of drug and alcohol addictions. There is mounting evidence that some adults and kids are also susceptible to food addiction. Come chat about what food addiction means and strategies to help your children and family overcome it.

Vicious Cycles - Sometimes parents and their kids get caught up in a vicious cycle where a child becomes increasingly stressed by a parent upset about their weight. The child may end up eating more, not less, to deal with the strained relationship. Let us find ways to break this cycle so that your child can start to successfully lose weight.

Medically Overweight 101 - Overweight and obesity can adversely affect your child's health. There is more than a number on a scale to indicate a problem. Come learn about tests to detect diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems, fatty liver, arterial conditions, and sleep apnea. Help your kids lose weight and alleviate these problems at the same time!

Losing Weight is a Family Affair - There are simple lifestyle changes to help kids and other overweight family members to shed pounds. We'll review 10 items that can help kick the bad habit of overeating within your household.

To see a list of past Parents Chat topics click here.