How Can I Help My Child Lose Weight?
You have to lose weight because you want to, not because someone else wants you to lose weight. The first step in helping your child to lose weight is to help him want to lose weight. Being positive, making lifestyle changes as a family and setting a goal to be healthy, rather than slim, are ways you can help cultivate a desire in your child to lose weight.
Step 1
Encourage and engage in active play. Instead of sitting around and playing a board game, head outside and kick a ball around, play a game of basketball or have relay races. Making active play a part of your daily routine can help your child to lose weight.
Step 2
Serve healthy foods. Your child can only eat what you serve her and what is available. Stock the cabinets and refrigerator with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. Avoiding meals that are high in starchy carbohydrates can help aid in your child’s weight loss, according to Parents.com.
Step 3
Limit screen time. Limiting the time your child spends watching television, playing video games and using the computer can help him lose weight. Children who watch more television than recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics are at a higher risk for obesity, according to USDA.gov.
Step 4
Be a role model. Let your child see you eating healthy foods and staying active. What you do is more powerful than what you say. If you want your child to live a healthy lifestyle, you must live a healthy lifestyle.