Your child is growing, and some extra weight on his frame may be normal, particularly if he is going through puberty. But if your child is overweight and is not getting proper exercise or eating healthy foods, it helps to talk about your child's weight issue. According to Jamie Calabrese, MD, medical director of the Children's Institute in Pittsburgh, "How you discuss a child's weight problem can make a huge difference in helping her deal with it."
Step 1
Take your child to the doctor to determine whether or not she is overweight. If you think your child is overweight for her age, your doctor can confirm this for you and give you tips to help your child maintain a healthier lifestyle, according to Kids Health.
Step 2
Bring up your child's weight gently and privately. Wait until the two of you are alone in the house together, or in a location where you will not be interrupted. "Parents" magazine recommends asking a question like, "You heard the doctor say you're gaining weight too quickly. Do you want to talk about what we can do to help?"
Step 3
Make healthy substitutions in the entire family's diet plan, and explain to your child why you are making these changes. For example, change whole-fat milk and cheese to low-fat milk and cheese, then explain to your child that low-fat products contain less saturated fat, which can cause weight gain if you eat too much of it.
Step 4
Take your child on fun outings with the family. If your family's weekend routine is sitting around the house watching a movie, turn off the television and take a bike ride, go canoeing or take a trip to the playground. Your child will enjoy the family togetherness and get exercise at the same time.
Step 5
Encourage your child to eat and enjoy healthy foods. Ask your child what his favorite fruits and vegetables are, and incorporate these foods into his meals and snacks.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep carrot sticks, celery sticks, grapes and strawberries on hand for your child to eat throughout the day as a snack.
- Do not scold or berate your child for being overweight.
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