Weight loss for 11 year old?

[MavisTheToreador]

Hello, is there a section I could ask for help with my son's weight please?

He eats a good diet though he does tend to try to avoid vegetables.

I think the main problem is reluctance to exercise. He's very into computer games.

I think it's a bit beyond just hoping he'll grow taller, I'm concerned for him.

Thanks.

[lastqueenofscotland]

How big is he and what is he eating on an average day?

Is he completely sedentary

[ManicPixieDream]

Watching with interest as my DS is very similar since he stopped playing out on his bike / skateboard and started playing xbox. I try to get him out walking the dog with me etc but it's a bit of a battle.

[Crumbs1]

Speak to school nurse for sensible advice.
Take him to rugby where all shapes fit in. He may be embarrassed at rake like footie fanatics but that isn't a problem with rugby where a few heavier lads are needed.
Reduce portion size and don't have junk food like crisps in the house.
Turn internet off for two hours each evening.

[MavisTheToreador]

Thanks for the replies, great suggestions and I'll try to make those changes.

ManicPixieDream i am also talking about this in the children's health section, thread titled "my son has moobs". There's been some great help there too.

[ManicPixieDream]

Thanks Mavis, I'll have a look

[Whathaveilost]

My advice is too not have processed snacks in the house. Don't ban them as such but don't have them available.

Exercise as a family without being seen as exercise. Eg on your day off go out as a family. We used to plan hiking days in the Peak District or Lake District. We go mountain biking as a family.
We started doing this when the boys were quite young. It has put them in good stead. DS1 lost interest in hiking and suff mid teen years for a year or so but is back into it and goes on trails with mates.
We also did things like ice skating and skiing together and make it a social scene rather than something to lose weight.
I don't think there is anything wrong with computer games as such but everything in moderation.

[ThatsWhatYouDo]

Agree to cut down on having junk food in the house. I wouldn't make the healthier eating a "thing" just start serving healthy meals, everyone eating the same thing, as a matter of routine.

There are loads of healthy filling and kid friendly recipes online- marinate a chicken breast in Nandos sauce and serve with sweet potato mash and corn on the cob for example? If you tell him you're having home made Nandos he will think it's great!

It's fab that you're addressing this issue and wanting to do it sensibly and sensitively by the way. Always be supportive and if you can don't let him know you're concerned as he will be incredibly self conscious.