Weight Loss Surgery Help

Talking with your kids about being banded...

The question is not "should I tell my kids", but "how do I tell my kids". Children always know a lot more than parents think. What and how to tell your kids about Lap Band surgery will depend on several determining factors such as your child's age, curiosity level, and your relationship.

Your child's age will be a major determining factor in how you discuss your Lap Band surgery. For younger children (less than 10) provide information in a way that they can easily understand and do not give them too much information. A common mistake for parents is over explaining. If your child is less than 6 years old then time the talk about Lap Band surgery just a couple of weeks before the surgery. Keep in mind that 2 weeks for a young child is a very long time. As a general rule of thumb follow your child's lead in how much information you provide. Let your child's questions guide you in how much information they are seeking.

You will probably need to have more than "one talk" as your child will have more questions as they have had an opportuntiy to process the information. Again, let their questions be your guide to providing additional information.

For older children you will need to provide more information suitable to their age and level of curiosity. Sometimes it is helpful to allow older children to play a role in your surgery. They can participate by visiting you in the hospital, being helpful around the house, and providing emotional support. Older children will have more complex questions and are more likely to have numerous follow-up questions. The literature you have collected on Lap Band surgery may be helpful to your older and young adult children.

Regardless of your child's age you will want to make the discussions about your upcoming Lap Band procedure an ongoing process. Always reassure them regarding the low risk of surgery and the many benefits. When discussing the benefits of surgery remember to focus on more than the health benefits. Children and teens do not always view health benefits in the same positive light as adults. Also tell your children about how much more active and energized you will be following the surgery and weight loss. Your children will like knowing that you will be more available to them and more active in their lives.

As always I hope this information is helpful in your remarkable journey following Lap Band/WLS.