Ways for Kids to Lose Weight Easily

Children are growing up obese in alarming numbers, and they could face certain health problems if their weight is not addressed as early as possible. Unlike adults, approaching a weight problem with a child requires more care and compassion as their sense of self-identity is just developing. Giving them a reason to feel good about losing weight does not have to be an arduous chore, but rather can be a fun and easy project for the whole family.

Instructions

• 1

  Motivate your child to lose weight and improve his overall health. With so many distractions keeping kids indoors and inactive, limit his time surfing the Web, watching TV and playing video games. Instead, use these activities as a reward for performing a healthy activity first. Have an honest talk with your child about his current weight and the possible health consequences.

• 2

  Play with your child or have him play more with other kids his own age. Play will make losing weight more fun than just going to a gym. In addition to burning some calories at the local park or playground, sign him up for an after-school sport, which can be healthy and fun for your child. Team sports build confidence and create friendships.

• 3

  Involve your child in the family grocery shopping so that he can establish healthy food choices. Review the food labels and show him how healthy or unhealthy certain foods are. Making smart, low-calorie decisions together will instill a habit that will last the rest of his life.

• 4

  Cook together to establish skills that will help your child prepare low-fat, low-calorie meals well into adulthood. Cooking is an easy way to make the weight-loss process fun. It will also dispel some myths that he may have about healthy foods tasting bland or "yucky." Find a local dietitian who can offer menu ideas.

• 5

  Enlist the help of the child's friend to make this a project they can work on together. Having a buddy makes the weight-loss program easier and more successful since they will be accountable to each other in achieving their goals.