Fat Camps for Children

With the growing problem of childhood obesity in the United States, many parents look to weight-loss camps to help their children slim down. Weight-loss camps across the country use plans to help children eat better and be more active. In addition to altering diets and daily living, many of these camps also include some therapy to modify behavior that may contribute to obesity, as well as helping the children deal with self-esteem issues and other problems that may crop up. These camps cater to a variety of ages and many offer scholarships or other financial aid.

Daily Life

• A day at a weight-loss camp typically begins early and remains full to keep the kids active. Rather than making activities seem like torture or some form of punishment, the camps makes sure the kids enjoy themselves while becoming more healthy. The camps often divide days up into activity periods, allowing kids to participate in multiple activities at once. Common activities at weight-loss camps include water activities like swimming or kayaking, team sports like basketball or volleyball, hiking and aerobics classes. Fitness may be the main goal, but weight loss camps also emphasize teamwork and the importance of socialization. Some camps organize events like dances or theatrical plays for campers to interact with one another.

Meal Plans

• Altering diet and boasting healthy eating helps kids at weight loss camps manage their weight. These camps have registered dietitians to help with meals. Some camps tailor meals according to an individual camper's needs. Oftentimes, instead of bland and boring meals, the camps use low-fat preparations of food often beloved by kids. Wellspring camps and Camp Shane, for instance, allow campers to eat items like chicken tenders, hamburgers, pizza and fettuccine. The recipes receive a makeover from an average greasy calorie-fest into a lower-calorie, low-fat option. Many of the camps also offer cooking classes for the campers, giving them the tools to continue their healthy eating habits once at home.

Behavioral Therapy

• The key to weight loss lies within transforming the physical and mental habits. Weight-loss camps recognize this and bring in behavioral therapists to deal with campers. Campers visit with the therapists once a week or as needed. Behavioral therapists help campers understand their relationship with food better. In cases of emotional eaters, therapy can point campers to stress management options that can prevent overeating.

Admission and Tuition

• Weight loss camps often admit children in middle and high school. Several camps, like Camp Shane and New Image camps, admit children as young as 7. Generally, children admitted must be at least 20 pounds overweight according to their height. Because of all that's included in weight loss camps, tuition for them tends to be on the steep side. Tuition varies based upon the length of stay at the camps, with many requiring at least a 2 week stay. Parents can expect to pay at least $2,000 for a 3-week session at weight loss camps. While the prices seem steep, many camps offer financial assistance based on need; Camp Shane, for instance, recently created the Nikki Blonsky scholarship.