Steps to take when helping an overweight child

It seems like yesterday but, 30 years ago; when my daughter was a toddler she would grab any piece of food that wasn't nailed down.  At first it was cute but as time went by she developed a weight problem.  It became especially frustrating when we would go clothes shopping.  Her waistline was gradually expanding and some proactive steps had to be implemented.  The following are some instrumental steps parents can take to help their child lose weight.

• A visit to your child's pediatrician should be scheduled with a complete physical exam.  The physician will determine your child's (BMI) Body Mass Index.  This is a calculated measurement for children 2 to 20 years old.  It assesses the level of body fat and determines if your child is at risk for weight-related health problems.  Openly discuss with the pediatrician your family health history this will provide the doctor with additional data during the medical consultation.
• Once a parent has a clear assessment of their child's health they can then proceed along with the physician in designing an exercise and nutrition program.
• You and your child can work together to map out a daily routine of eating healthy and exercising together.  Even though my daughter is now a young adult, we still motivate each other by going to the local fitness center together, teaming-up helps incorporate a fitness life style.

• While my daughter was going through her overweight phase she also experienced teasing from her classmates.  Emotional distress is another concern that a parent and child has to contend with.  There may be a myriad of reasons a child develops a  weight problem; heredity, an eating disorder, divorced parents, death of a parent or loved one, low self-esteem, lack of acceptance by peers, etc..  If a parent feels that counseling is needed your child's pediatrician would have the resources available to refer you to one.

  All parents need to keep in mind that during this weight-loss regimen you have to continue encouraging your child by instilling a positive self-esteem. Your child will develop determination and perseverance with the ability to accomplish the desired weight loss.  Children need to understand that losing weight will make them healthier and able to alleviate serious health problems in the future.

1/13/09- Press Release: The School District of Philadelphia and Independence Blue Cross Partner to Improve Student Wellness and Reduce Childhood Obesity .  An online tool that helps schools address student health issues.  This program is being provided to schools at no cost through the district's health insurer, Independence Blue Cross.  For more information contact, Independence Blue Cross, Department of Media Inquiries at; 1-215-241-2220 or go online to: http://www.ibx.com/news_events/press_releases/2009/01_13_Phila_School_District_a.ht...  

A nationally recognized weight-loss camp for girls (8-21 yrs.old), located near the Philadelphia, Pa. area with three locations is: Camp Pennbrook, Pennsburg, Pa., Pennington and Leonia, NJ., (1-800-440-PENN), this camp was also featured on MTV music television with a ACA (American Camp Accreditation).

Camp Pocono Trail, Norwood, NJ., (1-800-365-0556), is a coed weight-loss camp (7-19 yrs.old) located 90 minutes from Philadelphia, Pa., This camp was featured on MTV "Fat Camp" with a ACA (American Camp Accreditation).

 Open communication is very important for a parent to gain a better understanding of the impact this is having on your child.  Patience, communication, healthy eating choices and exercise will help combat childhood obesity.  Once my daughter reached junior high school the extra weight slowly disappeared.  Since then she has maintained her weight and looks fabulous.  When dealing with an overweight child every parent should think positive, use a hands-on approach and be proactive by utilizing their resources.

 Wishing continued success!!

 Below are some helpful resource links:

kidhealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/.../childs_weight.html

weightloss.about.com/od/childhoodobesity/a/helpkids.htm

www.flat-stomach-exercise.com/weight-loss-for-teens.html

www.fitness.gov/council.pubs.htm

www.camppennbrook.com

www.camppoconotrails.com

 www.KidsHealth.org - nutrition & fitness picture above

www.whyy.org/childrensservice/lbbs_funders.html