What to do about an overweight two year old? - Page 2

[gardenmommy]

A lot of good advice already mentioned. I would add that perhaps instead of obsessing over her diet (not saying don't work to improve it, btw), maybe focus on adding in more physical activities. I just read (maybe in Parenting? Can't remember) that children need an average of 90 minutes exercise every day. It doesn't have to be all at once, and it can be something as simple as running up and down the sidewalk and making pictures. 10 minutes here and there throughout the day can add up to significant activity for a 2 yr. old. I bought a mini-trampoline to help increase my children's activity levels in the snowy weather. In the summer, I try to go for a walk several times a week with them. All of those are pretty inexpensive activities, and can be done with a variety of ages. Good luck! I think your DD is extremely fortunate that you are addressing this issue right now, rather than waiting until she is 10 and getting picked on for her weight.

[JElaineB]

I think a lot of the suggestions look good, especially eating higher quality foods. The traditional foods forum here is great. However, the one big thing that has helped our family is Ellyn Satter's book Your Child's Weight: Helping Without Harming. We have been been basically follwoing the guidelines in this book for 3 years now, since DS was 4. I wish we had started sooner. It really has helped. Some of the stuff in the book seems counter-intuitive at first, but if you trust it and follow the principles in there, it will help.

[PaytonPlace]

I agree with the majority of what others have written. Focus on good quality foods. It's really that simple at this age. And I agree that it is a great time for the entire family to become dedicated to a healthy lifestyle.

I don't think she's overweight just because she's at the top of the charts. How is she height-wise? My DD was born 10lbs 7oz and she was off the charts for both height & weight until she was 3 1/2. Once she turned 3, she pretty much stayed the same weight for the entire year but grew much taller. None of her doctors have ever expressed any sign of concern and I have never been concerned because I knew her diet and activity levels were appropriate for her age.