How To Curb Obesity At Home For Kids

Childhood obesity nearly tripled from the 1970s to the 2000s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obese children are at risk of cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems and low self-esteem. Obese youth also are more likely to be obese as adults, which can lead to increased prevalence of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. As a parent, you can take several actions to help curb your kid's obesity. Encourage a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and healthy eating.

Step 1

Encourage your child to get off the couch and be active. The National Academy of Sports Medicine recommends that children daily engage in 90 minutes of physical activity. Encourage your child to run, take a walk, play sports, ride a bike, dance, swim, jump on a trampoline, roller blade or play a game of tag with the neighborhood kids.

Step 2

Limit your child's television, computer and video game time. Allow your child to use this type of technology for just an hour or two each day. Encourage the use of motion-sensor video games to encourage your child to move even while he plays video games.

Step 3

Encourage healthy eating. Feed your child five servings of fruits and vegetables throughout the week, along with low-fat dairy, whole-grains and lean meats. In addition, serve healthy snacks including yogurt, celery and peanut butter or whole-grain pretzels.

Step 4

Allow your child to help prepare meals. Take your child to the grocery store to help you pick healthy foods. Allow your child to help you in the kitchen. Your child is more likely to enjoy a healthy meal knowing she helped you prepare it.

Step 5

Make small cutbacks in your child's diet. Daily eliminate one can of soda, one candy bar or one high-caloric indulgence from your child's diet. Replace the high-calorie indulgence with a healthier alternative such as water, fruit or yogurt.

Step 6

Make eating a healthy diet and performing regular exercise a family affair. Engage in the same type of behavior that you expect of your child. In other words, set an example.

Tips and Warnings

Talk to your child's doctor about weight concerns. Your child's doctor can help determine a healthy weight for your child's age, height and bone structure. If necessary, a pediatrician can recommend nutrition or exercise plans, or refer you to a nutritionist or exercise physiologist.