Jane from Clay worries about her son's health. "For the past 2 yearly visits to the pediatrician, I have asked for help with my son's weight. He is now 8 years old, is 4"1" tall and weighs 94 pounds. Each time I have been told to 'increase his activity.' How? He is not a 'joiner,' and the few activities he likes are once a week for 7 weeks at a time. It's not working - now what?"
The folks at SUNY Upstate's "Health Connections" referred Jane to a couple of good on-line resources:
The following website describes the Healthy Lifestyle Program here at Upstate. (Patients need to be referred by their primary physician):
The following site from the Mayo Clinic may prove helpful:
It gives a great overview for childhood obesity, including exercise advice, and limiting sedentary activities.
I believe the secret is to find something the child enjoys. Another suggestion is to join the child. Walking is especially good, and so accessible especially as the warm weather arrives.
I hope this helps!
Sincerely,
Jeanne B., B.S.RNC
