What should a parent do if a body weight chart indicates a child is overweight?

Parents can help overweight children develop healthy habits by being a positive role model and getting the whole family involved in eating healthy foods and participating in physical activities. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day, and this can be broken up into smaller activity periods.

Offering healthy snacks, such as air-popped popcorn, fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat yogurt and smoothies, helps children make positive food choices. Foods that should be limited include white flour, rice and pasta, chips and fries, candy and other foods that are high in sodium and/or sugar. The child's health care provider can also monitor his weight and provide guidance.