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Treatment for childhood obesity is based on your child's age and if he or she has other medical conditions. Treatment usually includes changes in your child's eating habits and physical activity level. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children older than 2 and toddlers whose weight falls in the overweight category be put on a weight-maintenance program to slow the progress of weight gain. This strategy allows the child to add cm in height but not kg, causing the BMI to drop over time into a healthier range.

Children who are obese might be encouraged to modify their eating habits for gradual weight loss. The methods for maintaining your child's current weight or losing weight are the same: Your child needs to eat a healthy diet — both in terms of type and amount of food — and increase physical activity. Success depends largely on your commitment to helping your child make these changes.

Healthy eating

1. Offer fruits and vegetables As healthy snacks. Avoid sweets, cookies and items with added sugar.
2. Limit sweetened beverages This includes those that contain fruit juice. These drinks provide little nutritional value in exchange for their high calories.
3. Limit fast food Many of the menu options are high in fat and calories.
4. Sit down together for family meals Discourage eating in front of a TV and tablets which can lead to fast eating and lowered awareness of the amount eaten.
5. Serve appropriate portion sizes Children don't need as much food as adults do. Allow your child to eat only until full, even if that means leaving food on the plate.

Physical activity Which burns calories, strengthens bones and muscles, and helps children sleep well at night and stay alert during the day. The child should be encouraged to be active for at least an hour a day.

Parents play a crucial role in helping children who are obese feel loved and in control of their weight. Take advantage of every opportunity to build your child's self-esteem.

Avoid weight talk

1.  Discourage dieting and skipping meals. 
2.  Find reasons to praise your child's efforts. 
3.  Talk to your child about his or her feelings. 
4.  Help your child focus on positive goals. 
5. Be patient.

Your child's pediatrician will probably make the initial diagnosis of childhood obesity. You should ask him for more information and help to manage your child obesity.

Dr.Mohamad Bahjat

Pediatrician

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/childhood-obesity-and-weight-problems.htm