Most babies are chubby and have rolls in their legs and arms. As your baby turns into a toddler and then into a school-aged kid, you might find that some of his baby fat has lingered. If your kid has extra belly fat, you are probably worried about his health and how he feels around other kids his age. Just as with weight loss in adults, belly fat in kids cannot be spot-reduced. Instead, focus on increasing your kid's activity level and improving his diet to help him lose the extra weight. Also, consult a pediatrician before starting a weight-loss program for your child.
Step 1
Talk with your doctor before attempting to put your kid on a weight-loss program. Your doctor can determine if any underlying medical conditions are causing the belly fat or if any medical concerns could interfere with weight loss. The doctor can also provide you with information on an appropriate weight for your child.
Step 2
Encourage your kid to play team sports. Sign him up for a sports team through school, the community or your local church. Sports such as basketball, soccer and track will engage your kid in cardiovascular exercise a few times a week to help burn calories and lose body fat.
Step 3
Plan 60 minutes each day for your child to be active. Get involved in participating during this time, to encourage healthy behaviors for the whole family. Play a game of tag or kickball, go for a walk, or let your child pick her favorite activity.
Step 4
Emphasize healthy eating habits at home and on the go. Avoid fast-food restaurants, ice cream shops and candy stores. Stock your kitchen with more fresh fruit, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains and lean protein. Compromise and let your kid pick some of her favorite foods within those food groups when grocery shopping.
Step 5
Prepare smaller meals more often. Provide four to six smaller meals to your child instead of three large meals, and limit snacks. This will teach your kid to eat when hungry and to only eat small portions instead of bingeing until he is stuffed.
Step 6
Pack your kid's lunch if the school does not provide a healthy lunch. Obtain the school's monthly lunch menu. Pack a lunch for your child on the days that fried foods or foods similar to a fast-food restaurant are being served at the school. Make sure your child isn't taking money to school to buy lunch or ice cream.
Step 7
Let your kid eat favorite foods or treats sparingly. A rigid, strict diet can cause your child to hate healthy eating. Allow him to have his favorite foods or snacks once a week.
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