9 Ways to Make Your Kid Fat

If your child is overweight, or on the fast track to being fat, you may wonder what's causing the problem. Could the problem be you? It's possible. Experts say even well-meaning moms and dads make mistakes that cause kids to put on weight. Here are nine mistakes to avoid.

Mistake: Giving Up on Healthy Eating

Does your child hate just about every food but chicken nuggets and fries? Don't despair - and don't give up trying to get him or her to eat healthier fare. It's not unusual for children to start liking a particular food only after they've tried it five or 10 times - or more.

Mistake: Setting a Bad Example

Children are great mimics. If they see you plopping down in front of the TV every evening, they're likely to think that's the thing to do. So even if you prefer sedentary activities like reading or doing crossword puzzles, find something active to do. A child who sees you enjoying physical activity may be more inclined to join in.

Mistake: Letting Your Child Eat Alone

Kids who eat by themselves - often in front of a TV or computer screen - may eat more, or eat the wrong kinds of foods. Experts say it's best to eat together as a family, preferably around a table. And even if your child is the only family member with a weight problem, don't single him or her out. Every family member should eat well.

Mistake: Using Sweets as a Reward

Ever use dessert to bribe your kid to eat his vegetables? That sends the message that veggies are "bad" and dessert is "good" - hardly the message you want to send if you're trying to get your child to make smart food choices.

Mistake: Making Your Child Clean His Plate

Some well-meaning parents insist that children clean their plates. But that only encourages kids to eat when they're not hungry. Better to cut back on portion sizes. If your child is still hungry, you can always give seconds.

Mistake: Letting Your Child Skip Breakfast

Kids who skip breakfast may be more likely to snack later on. And all too often, they're picking the wrong kinds of snacks - like the kind that come out of a candy machine.

Mistake: Pushing Your Child to Play Sports You Like

What if your child isn't interested in playing the sports you enjoy - or once enjoyed? That's okay. Encourage your child to find another sport or form of exercise - one he/she really enjoys. Even simple things like jump rope, tag, hopscotch, dance, and yoga can give your kid a fun way to get in shape and burn calories.

Mistake: Being a Drill Sergeant

No need to chain your child to the treadmill or weight machine. In fact, it could be counterproductive - because pre-adolescent bodies generally aren't ready for adult-style exercise regimens. Instead, plan active outings - a trip to the zoo, a family bike ride, or a walk. Kids should generally get about 60 minutes of physical activity a day.

Mistake: Withholding Affection

Children - even chubby ones - need to feel loved by their parents. So don't think that showing your concern or displeasure about your child's weight will help him/her lose the extra pounds.