I volunteer with Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and when I see my "little sister" (she's 15 now) any time we go out to eat, especially to places like Denny's or Perkins, IHOP, etc. she always orders more than she can eat in one meal, or meals with things I know she won't eat. I keep asking her to order smaller meals, but she always insists that she can finish it. Invariably she doesn't, and ends up taking half of it home. Sometimes she says she'll eat it later, sometimes she says she knows someone else who will eat it.
What is going on? I know the theory of your eyes are bigger than your stomach, but I think there is something more going on. I know her family is relatively poor, they live in section 8 housing and stuff. Is this a sign that she doesn't get enough to eat at home? She's not skinny and doesn't look malnourished. I just get frustrated paying for more food than she can eat. What can I do to help her change this behavior?
2007-03-10
13:59:14
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10 answers
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asked by
tinaroonie
2
in
Family & Relationships
➔ Friends
there is more than meets the eye here.
2007-03-10 14:02:16
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answer #1
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answered by Richard J 4
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Dont.
this happens all the time with kids who may come from less affluent backgrounds. i remember my older sis would do that all the time, back when we were poor. and even now, when the first car i've ever driven was a mercedes, i still feel a need to "hoard" things. as long as it doesnt get serious, the behavior shouldnt be a problem.
and whats the harm in doing that? if you dont have enough money yourself to order all that food, try inviting her over for a home cooked meal that she can help you with.its cheaper and you guys get to spend more time together. and make her feel welcome to take home leftovers, as many as she wants. give her a tupperware especially for her, and make it a weekly thing where she can take home food. and if you are close with her, and know when shes settling on even harder times, invite her to take basics home. like rice, potatoes, you know. but if you dont feel comfortable telling her that, refer her to a food bank or an organization made especially for families just needing a little help. try not to be so obvious and be careful with your words.
well these are a few ideas, but the first way to get to know her is to TALK! talk about anything and everything. let her know that you will always be there for her. no matter what. get to know her siblings and maybe her family.
hope you find some luck with this :)
2007-03-11 00:11:58
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answer #2
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answered by ilovebobmarley83 1
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It might not be that she doesn't get enough to eat at home, but that eating at home might not be an enjoyable experience. It may be hard to believe but the conditions under which children are exposed to while eating on a regular basis can dramatically change their opinions of whats most important. For instance, if a child never has a "sit down" meal, never has anything home-cooked or "made with love" and never has any type of positive social interaction while eating, she might see going out to eat as a special and rare treat that should be savored. Maybe that's why she's taking the food home, in order to elongate or remember the experience.
2007-03-10 22:08:32
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answer #3
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answered by Zepp 1
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You can't she is 15 and that is normal 15 yr old behavior. I have a 15 yr old daughter and she does the same thing. We always have plenty of food in the house so worried about eating later is not the issue. It is just a typical teenager as long as she is not waisting it there shouldn't be a problem. Maybe she likes to think back at the fun she had while with you and maybe she likes to eat lefteover food. I know my mom does so do I and my child. Makes it last longer
2007-03-10 22:03:04
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answer #4
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answered by 'lil peanut 6
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first, i commend you for doing such a worthy cause. you make the world a better place. yes that sounds cheezy, but it's really true. x]
now...try this. unless she's TERRIBLY stubborn, this may work.
i would simply suggest that she try something smaller, such as an appetizer (larger ones can serve as whole meals). then, if she asks to order more, explain to her that she may order more IF she finishes what she already ordered. despite the fact that she may not be wasting it (if she is indeed poor), kindly explain that you'd like to try and use the food/money available in the best way possible for everyone.
except, of course, if she does have a dire situation at home. in that case, be understanding & keep a full wallet. x]
good luck! =]
2007-03-10 22:04:16
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answer #5
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answered by answers, answers 4
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She's probably taking the food home to a sibling or saving it for herself. Just because she doesn't look malnourished doesn't mean she isn't. Low cost foods are very high in fat, so someone may look well fed but they are not.
Be proud of yourself that you can give to this little girl. You know whar they say---that your gifts will come back to you.
2007-03-10 22:07:14
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answer #6
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answered by mishatrudy 1
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maybe she is bringing home food to another person so they can eat as well, I would not mind doing this if you do not mind paying for such, look at it this way, most likly she saves it for herself later or someone else is also being fed
2007-03-10 22:02:53
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answer #7
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answered by Gina 4
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Maybe she really wants to have leftovers. Perhaps eating the leftovers reminds her of the fun day she had with you.
If you can afford it, just let her order what she wants.
2007-03-10 22:02:56
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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dont take her out to eat
2007-03-10 22:02:36
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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tell her that if she eats alot, she will fart alot and boys wont like her
2007-03-10 22:03:18
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answer #10
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answered by Anonymous
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