My Child is Getting Chubby! What to Do…

Kids these days are more sedentary than ever before. Playing in the yard has been replaced by playing video games, and sitting on the couch has replaced a seat on the see-saw. This has caused a rise in childhood obesity and kids who are over their ideal weight for their age and stature.

If you think your child is beginning to get “chubby,” it’s important to deal with the issue before it becomes a health problem down the line. It may be uncomfortable to bring this topic up with your child in the fear that you might insult or anger him, but with the right approach, you can turn things around and make sure your child is on the right path – both physically and mentally – with solid information about proper nutrition and exercise.
Talk About Health, Not Appearance                              

You know your child is beautiful no matter their shape or size. Instilling this message is vital to your child’s self-esteem and confidence. That said, if you notice that your child is packing on the pounds, not from growing up, but from overeating or lack of activity, it’s time to talk about health. Explain to your child why extra weight and fat can lead to health issues. Not to scare him, but to educate. This will show that you care about his well-being and will help him make changes in the right direction. Here’s how…

 

Plan Activities as a Family

It’s time to get moving and the best way to encourage your child to be more active is to make it a family affair. Plan days at the park playing ball, going fishing, taking hikes, or even just walking around the neighborhood. Rather than a day at the movies or an indulgent backyard BBQ, go for something that gets the family up and about. It won’t feel like exercise when everyone’s having fun playing and bonding as a family. Make fitness part of your child’s day-to-day experience.

 

Create Nutritious Meals

Along with physical activity comes eating healthfully. Plan meals that are nutritious, but tasty too, so the family will look forward to mealtime. Talk with your child about fresh fruits and veggies, limiting sweets, portion control, and how to make smart choices when you are not with him. Don’t bring junk into the home and tote your own snacks along when you can to avoid impulse purchases and mindless munching. Yes, treats in moderation are OK, just not something that should be part of the everyday diet. As your child eats more and more healthful foods, his appetite for the “bad” stuff will go away and cravings will disappear. This lesson in good eating will be a lifelong gift.

 

Be a Good Role Model

We all know that kids learn from watching what their parents do, so be mindful of your activity and intake too. If your child sees you vegging out on the couch all day, why shouldn’t they follow suit? And if you always order a Coke rather than water, he’s going to want that sugary soda pop as well. Show your child that you feel better when you are fit and eating well. When he sees how it affects you, he’ll be inclined to follow in your footsteps. Before you know it, your child will be on the road to a healthy lifestyle and a strong body.
Have you had to discuss this topic with your child? What were the best ways to talk it out and what were the results? Was the talk different for boys vs. girls?

For more information like this, please visit All My Children blogs.

By: Melissa A. Kay