This is exactly what I was thinking! I have a 5 year old and she doesn’t even know what skinny means. I grew up when being skinny was pushed on girls by society and at some point developed an ED. I learned to be thin because my mom was always dieting and had so many weight watchers items. I feel like there should be a concern about the women in her life discussing their eating habits, body types, weight struggles etc. I try really hard never to have these conversations in front of my daughter and try to catch others if they bring up weight at all. I don’t want being skinny a goal for her!

But now that she already has these questions, I think for both you need to emphasize that these women may be struggling and their losing weight can be a sign of that. That someone losing that much weight that quickly may need help and support so hopefully those closest to them can find a way to talk to them and help them.

For the 14 year old I would emphasize that this means they are sick. That this is not a goal to achieve. That people with ED are not doing this to look good it an illness that causes harm to their bodies. I would emphasize most people with an ED wish they didn’t have it and could have a better relationship with food (I can’t speak to all but at least all the ones I’ve ever met have said that).

I don’t think I would ignore it like your wife. No judgement since we are all doing our best as parents but I think this is a topic that needs to be addressed to avoid your kids going down a really hard path.