Martha recently posted about whether or not parents should be notified if their children are overweight. A recent user question on Momtourage shows that some doctors are doing just that. ... and I think it's a good thing. The parent asking the question is wondering if they should even be concerned that their child is overweight because they feel that their child is active and happy.

Some children are clearly, unmistakably overweight. But for other kids, it isn't always easy to tell. After all, kids go through growth spurts and they grow at different rates. But if a medical professional expresses that your child is indeed overweight, it's time to take action.

As parents, there are many things you can do to help your child live a healthy lifestyle and maintain an appropriate weight.

• Be supportive. Never disparage or tease your child about their weight. Instead, be a soft place for them to land. If they have concerns (or are being teased at school), listen to them. If they are unaware of their weight issue, you don't really need to point it out. Healthy, weight-managing habits can be enforced without drawing attention to their weight gain.
• Stock your cupboards. Stock your cupboards with nutritious foods and healthy snacks. You may think your child "needs" treats ... but he/she doesn't. At least not in the form of junk food. Whole-grain cereals, oatmeal, fruit, and eggs are good breakfast choices. Sandwiches on whole wheat, yogurt, string cheese, and salad are healthful lunch options. Whole-grain crackers, vegetables, and fruit are good snack options. And don't make special dinners for your kids -- they can eat what you make for the meal.
• Embrace anytime foods. If your child heads to the kitchen too often throughout the day and is subsequently overeating, consider instituting an "anytime food" rule. Have fruit and cut veggies on hand that can be eaten in any quantity and at any time of day without having to ask. Other foods are reserved for prepared snacks or meals. Keep in mind -- this isn't a rule for your kids only ... this is a rule for the whole family.
• Get a green thumb. If you have the space, plant a garden. You can even grow some veggies in containers. When your kids help plant and tend to fresh produce, they're more likely to develop an interest in eating it.
• Observe activity. Often parents think their children are more active than they really are. If your child is outside playing, watch them and see how much of that time they're truly active. Your child should be active for at least 60 minutes a day.
  
• Be active with your child. One of the best ways to encourage activity is to lead by example. Go on a family bike ride, play a game of basketball, walk your child to school, or go on a weekend hike. Make activity fun, engaging, and appropriate for your child's activity level.
• Encourage organized activities. If your child is interested in team sports, be sure to sign them up. If they're not into team sports, make other suggestions and see if any spark an interest in your child. How about swimming lessons, gymnastics classes, dance, horseback riding lessons, or BMX biking?
• Plan healthful outings. Instead of going out for ice cream for a treat, consider fun family activities. Go to a new park or check out your local community center (many have fun options like rock climbing).
  
• Protect your child's self-esteem. Being overweight can be harmful to your child's self esteem. Make sure they know that you love them no matter what. And bolster your child's confidence in their abilities (school work, musical abilities, art, social skills, etc.) as well as their appearance.
  

The National Institutes of Health have more suggestions on helping your child achieve a healthy weight.