Parents should follow these eight guidelines to determine if their child needs to lose weight and help them achieve a healthy body mass index.
1. Have a doctor check your child's BMI to determine if weight loss is necessary.
2. Make sure your child gets at least one hour of exercise every day.
3. Avoid fast food and pre-packaged meals in spite of their convenience.
4. Parents: Change your family's eating habits so they filter down to the children; lead by example.
5. Offer genuine support and encouragement to a child who is trying to lose weight.
6. Don't become the "food police," forcing or prohibiting certain foods; this will likely result in rebellion.
7. Avoid fad diets. Children need a healthy balance of foods including recommended amounts of fat and carbs as well as regular servings of fruit and veggies.
8. Stay positive. Weight loss is a journey, and a challenging one for most!
Also see: How to Help Your Child Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Weight Loss Camps and Programs in the New York Metro Area