​Helping an Overweight Child: Parents Responsibilities-Part 2 (Physical Activities)

In the process of helping your child to transcend from being overweight to having a normal weight, physical activity is one of the determinants in making this transition a success. As caring parents, you might ask, how can I help my child be more active?

The first thing you need to do is to try and make physical activity fun for your child. Children need about 60 minutes of physical activity a day, although the activity doesn’t have to be all at once. Several short 10- or even 5-minute spurts of activity throughout the day are just as good. If your child is not used to being active, encourage him or her to start slowly and build up to 60 minutes a day.

Also, you will need to always encourage daily activity in your child. Let them see the relevance of them being physically active. To encourage daily physical activity, parents can;

• Let your child choose a favorite activity to do regularly, such as climbing a jungle gym at the playground or joining a sports team or dance class.
• Help your child find simple, fun activities to do at home or on his or her own, such as playing tag, jumping rope, playing catch, shooting baskets, or riding a bike (wear a helmet).
• Limit time with the computer, television, cell phone, and other devices to 2 hours a day.
• Let your child and other family members plan active outings, such as a walk or hike to a favorite spot.

However, if you have tried to change your family’s eating, drinking, physical activity, and sleep habits and your child has not reached a healthy weight, you can ask a child’s health care professional (preferably a Nutritionist/Dietitian) about other options. He or she may be able to recommend a plan for healthy eating and physical activity. You can also reach out to us as we are here for you, as we have certified nutritionists that are dedicated to working with you to attain a good health status. Reach out to us using the contact form at the sidebar on the homepage.

Parents need to take note that during this process, your overweight child needs you to fully gain normal weight. You can help your child by being positive and supportive throughout any process or program you choose to help him or her achieve a healthy weight. Help your child set specific goals and track progress. Reward successes with praise and hugs.

Tell your child that he or she is loved, special, and important. This is essential because children’s feelings about themselves are often based on how they think their parents and other caregivers feel about them.

Listen to your child’s concerns about his or her weight. He or she needs support, understanding, and encouragement from caring adults.