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Losing weight: why the whole family needs to be involved

Disclaimer: This fact sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

• Starting a healthy lifestyle plan can be hard work although the long term benefits far outweigh the initial hard work. If your child has been advised to lose weight there are a number of reasons why changes should apply to the whole family.
• Everyone needs support to lose weight - especially kids. They can't do it without you.
• If everyone in the family makes healthy food choices and is more active, then it is easier to be consistent. The kids will remind you what you should be doing!
• Kids resist changes if they feel they are being picked on. Having different food plans for different children (unless it's absolutely necessary) can lead to fights.
• The food you offer and the brands you buy make a huge difference to your child's health. Consult with your dietitian when making new, healthy food choices.
• Children will learn from your example. When parents make changes the kids will be watching and are likely to copy Mum and Dad.
• Kids may not be motivated to lose weight and don't have the same self control as adults. You need to make sure that they are living in a family environment which is as healthy as possible.
• If someone in the family doesn't want to give up their unhealthy treats then get advice on healthy snacks which are also delicious.

• Everyone can benefit from a healthier lifestyle.
• The more parents and other kids are involved, the more likely a child can lose weight.

The Children's Hospital at Westmead Tel: (02) 9845 3585 Fax: (02) 9845 3562 www.chw.edu.au	Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick Tel: (02) 9382 1688 Fax: (02) 9382 1451 www.sch.edu.au	Kaleidoscope, Hunter Children's Health Network Tel: (02) 4921 3670 Fax: (02) 4921 3599 www.kaleidoscope.org.au