If your son is overweight, a doctor can confirm whether or not he needs to lose weight. If the doctor has told you that your son must lose weight, it is up to you to tell your son. Creating a safe environment will keep your son from thinking you're picking on him, and depending on his age, you may be able to intercept health problems before they happen. Talk to your son as early as possible about eating habits to keep weight from becoming a permanent problem.
Step 1
Include your doctor in the decision. Have the doctor tell your son that he must follow dietary restrictions to improve his health. Set up an open dialogue between the three of you to address any questions about your son's new diet, including meal plans and dietitian recommendations, if the doctor feels your son should see a dietitian.
Step 2
Avoid blaming your son or hurting his feelings about his weight. Although your son's eating decisions have caused him to become overweight, approach the situation by explaining how to improve his health, rather than lingering on the notion that he is unhealthy. Even if you are frustrated, maintain a calm demeanor, and avoid raising your voice or yelling.
Step 3
Explain why processed snacks that contain saturated fat are not nutritious. Consuming large amounts of saturated fat will lead to heart disease, increased chance of diabetes, stroke and death. Some children, and even some adults, do not know that foods containing saturated fat are unhealthy. Even if processed foods say they are low-fat, they are often high in sugar, which will ultimately lead to weight gain. Ask if your son understands that these foods should only be eaten every once in a while, rather than every day.
Step 4
Suggest ways for your son to become more active. Instead of coming home and watching TV after school, ask if he would like to play organized sports or ride his bike after school. Explain that an active lifestyle, in addition to a nutritious diet, will help him lose weight, and exercise is imperative to his health.
Step 5
Show your son that he is not alone. Instead of leaving his diet and exercise decisions up to him, approach the problem together in order to solve it. Agree to buy any nutritious foods your son wants at the grocery store, and ask if he has any nutritious dishes he would like you to prepare at home, in order to help him get on the right track.
Tips and Warnings
- Allow your child to eat his favorite foods occasionally and in small portions.
- Consult a doctor before placing your child on any restrictive diet or exercise program.
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