I recieved wonderful advice for my first post...so here i am again....
My oldest will be 13 this year, she is 5ft tall and 75 lbs. Her sister is 11 and is about and inch taller and 100 lbs. The 11 yr. old has started puberty and is a very healthy stature. I am wondering how to help my oldest to put on some pounds in a healthy manner. Her doctor teased her lovingly for her chicken arms when she went to give her shots. She suggested dairy...that is not really working for us. I have an inkling that the reason her puberty is nowhere in sight is the teeny tiny stature. What can i give her to help....or not worry yet?
keep having her drink the whole milk. if she does not like it try soy milk. they come in different flavors,including chocolate. feed her yogurt and cheese also. i would not worry yet. now if she is 14 and has not started puberty then i would worry.she what the doctor thinks first before worrying about it. if she does a lot of sports she may have a high metabolism and may need to eat more.
Children develop at different rates--even siblings. If she is healthy, don't worry about it. I was 15 before I started developing and I had 3 sisters--We all developed on our own timelines. If you draw too much attention to it, she might get really self conscious. I'd say let her enjoy being a child as long as possible with no pressures of growing up too soon.
T.,
Unless there is a medical problem or diagnostic from her physician about any problem, you should not worry, otherwise. I was petite in size and height all my life with my father being the pediatrician of the family. That is, he never found any thing abnormal knowing that my parents and family are mostly small in size. On the contrary, you may create to your daughter a concern with no real reason. So, if she is doing well in every aspect of her life, let her be.
Hi T.
Just a comment based on my own experience. I was always pretty skinny and very athletic and had a delayed onset of puberty, 16yrs old. My doctor said it was because of my weight and physical activity and not to be concerned, it would happen. I guess I was aware of it, but didn't talk about it so I didn't get any "grief" from other girls. Ever since it started, it was always horrible - heavy and horrible cramps and lasted about 3 weeks at a time. So, I am glad it started later than sooner... If her doctor isn't worried, try not to worry either. If she is worried or upset I would just reassure her that every person is different and there is nothing "wrong" with her. HTH.
I can relate to you 100%. I too, have a pre-teen, who is smaller then the rest, and no sight of puberty ither. Atleast besides the mood swings. I wish I had advise to give you, but i dont. I just want you to know that you are not alone.
