Obesity is no longer only a problem for adults. The Obesity Action Coalition points out that obesity affects as many as 30 percent of children in the United States, and these numbers could continue to rise (see References). Children are now at risk for chronic diseases that were once a problem primarily for adults. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic warn that children who are overweight can develop high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Step 1
Encourage your child to spend more time being physically active and less time sitting in front of a computer screen or television. When children spend more time being sedentary, they can become overweight. Help your child to select some athletic teams he would like to join. If he is too young for sports or is not interested, make it a point to spend more time playing with him, running around outdoors.
Step 2
Be a good role model, and maintain a healthy weight yourself. Children learn by example. It will be difficult for you to help your children achieve a healthy weight if you are carrying around excess pounds yourself.
Step 3
Prepare healthy meals for your family. Some families put on weight together because life is so busy, they often do not take the time to cook at home. But too many stops at fast-food restaurants are making children overweight. Invest in your children's future health by cooking nutritious, low-fat meals.
Step 4
Allow your child to leave some extra food on his plate. A lot of parents ask their kids to eat everything before allowing them to get up from the table. You may want your children to eat, but it isn't necessary to make them eat every bite. Since many families are in the habit of eating large portion sizes, you can actually help your children to lose weight by allowing them to eat less.
Step 5
Reward your children with a day at the park or some extra quality time with you instead of making a trip to their favorite restaurant. Some parents tend to use food to reward their children. Make it a new habit to find healthy rewards instead. Treat your kids to a trip to the amusement park or a camp-out in the backyard. Use rewards that will help keep your children active rather than encouraging them to overeat.
Step 6
Exercise as a family by playing baseball in your backyard, going roller-skating or spending a day at the park. Your children are more likely to be active if you make it fun for the entire family.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult with your child's pediatrician if you think he is overweight. A doctor can help you plan a safe and healthy weight loss routine for your child.
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