Health Tip: When Your Child Needs to Lose Weight

If your child is overweight, be sure to teach him or her about the importance of a nutritious diet and regular exercise. You also should offer plenty of support and avoid pressuring your youngster.

The Weight-loss Information Network offers these additional suggestions:

• Put your child on a weight-loss plan only after getting your doctor's approval.
• Don't severely restrict what your growing child eats.
• Give your child's self-esteem a lift by loving and accepting your child, no matter what size.
• Don't single out your child. Make sure the whole family exercises and practices healthy eating.
• Work with your child to celebrate accomplishments and cope with setbacks that don't involve eating.