Researchers have found...
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When both parents are physically active, the child is six times more likely to be physically active.
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If one parent habitually eats high fat food, the child is twice as likely to be overweight.
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If both parents eat high fat foods, the child is three to six times more likely to be overweight.
(Understanding Childhood Obesity Jackson: University Press of Mississippi, 1999)
What can parents do to help a child who is overweight?
- The most important thing a parent can do is to repeatedly tell and show the child, “I love you.” Never make an issue of a child's weight.
Making sure your child feels totally loved and accepted, regardless of his or her size, will help contradict messages from society. A child who feels total acceptance at home will be better able to handle negative comments about body size from others.
- As a parent you are the primary role model for your child. Your behaviors have a direct impact on your children.
Healthy eating and physical activity are good lifestyle habits for the entire family. Children who learn the value of exercise and the how-to of choosing healthy snacks and meals are more likely to continue such habits throughout their lives.
- Avoid giving special treatment to an overweight child.
What is good for overweight children is good for normal weight children and their families. Never put a child on a special diet or exercise program! Weight loss is not the goal. Instead, focus on weight maintenance, which allows children to grow into their weight.
- Finally, be involved in your child's life.
Children of parents who generally know their child's whereabouts, set clear rules, and participate appropriately in their child's school and play activities are more likely to report healthy habits—such as eating a healthy breakfast and lunch and consuming fruits and vegetables. These children also report high levels of family communication.
For more information on strategies for eating well and family physical activity, download (pdf) or order a copy of What Parents Can Do.
For more information, order the "Raising Healthy Kids" series 
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