When To Be Concerned About Your Child's Weight

Weight can be a sensitive topic for anyone, especially a child. It can also be especially challenging as a parent or caregiver to determine when, or if, they should be concerned about their child’s weight. Children are like sponges; so, it is important to be mindful of how weight is discussed. Too much discussion and focus on weight can negatively impact a child. Bullying can start at a young age, and kids who are overweight or obese may be bullied based on their size.

Weight can be a helpful tool for assessing health and well-being. Much like a “check engine light” on a car, abnormal weight gain can be an indicator that something else is going on and may prompt further assessment. Abnormal weight gain can also lead to other health concerns like prediabetes, fatty liver and elevated cholesterol. 

So, what should parents and caregivers think about weight and how should they interact with children in a way that promotes positive outcomes? 

• A parent’s role is to provide structure and boundaries in a child’s day. Parents decide what foods are offered, when and where. 
• A child’s job is to decide how much, or whether or not they eat, what is offered. 
• Look to provide balanced meals consisting of:
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Lean protein
  • Whole grains
• Water is the ideal beverage for all children. It is important to limit sugary drinks like soda, lemonade, and juice as they are high in added and refined sugars. Natural juice is still considered a sugary beverage since it has all the natural sugar from the fruit with none of the fiber.

Children should, and will, gain weight as they grow. It mostly becomes a concern when their weight gain is outpacing how tall they are growing. Growth charts are used to help document and track these changes. It is important that parents and caregivers communicate with their child’s primary care provider if they have any concerns. 

If you are interested in learning more about how to help your child achieve a healthy weight, or if you would like to request an appointment, visit the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition online.