Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

We invite you to add your comments - if you have feedback for the blog, would like some specific topics covered, or you just want to share your experience as a parent dealing with childhood obesity.

How to Make a Walk Fun

You made a resolution to help your kids get more exercise by taking a daily family walk. But instead of being excited, your children whine and balk. How can you increase their enthusiasm

The first thing to do is to make a walking goal attainable. If the pace is too fast or the distance too far - it can result in a less than positive experience, especially if your children aren't used to walking.

Here are some ideas for increasing the fun during your walks:

  • If there is another parent or caregiver at home, take only one child each time you walk. Make this your special time to share thoughts and feelings. Kids love one on one attention!
  • If you've been considering a dog or you have a dog, he may need exercise as much as you. Take him on a leash and let kids take turns.
  • Make it a nature walk. Pick up colored leaves, identify mushrooms, birds, flowers and trees, and look for animal tracks in the snow.
  • Play "Simon Says" as you go along; Simon Says flap your arms, march, run, touch your head, and so on.
  • Play "I spy" while walking.

Posted By: Lori S