We have to admit, whatever way we look at it, talking about weight has always been a little bit awkward among adults. Like politics, religion, and money, weight is one of those subjects that people tend to steer away from during even the merriest of dinner parties. However, when it comes to our children’s health, it’s a necessary conversation.

We know that you want to ensure your preschool children grow up to be healthy and happy, but as their bodies are constantly changing, we understand that it can be hard to know what’s a healthy weight, and what’s not! After all, when they put on a little extra weight, you may simply think, oh, they’re just having a growth spurt! Or equally, if they appear too slim, you may believe this is happening because they’re shooting up in height.

In order to know how to help your children grow into and maintain a good weight, you have to first educate yourself.

And that’s where we come in!

So, before we delve into some practical ideas as to how you can help your child in this area, let’s first understand why helping them maintain a good weight is so essential.

Why is weight control important for my child?

Helping your child to maintain a healthy weight is ultimately all about helping them to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By ensuring they eat well and engage in a sufficient amount of exercise, you are making sure that they are healthy not only physically, but mentally too. Children that are either overweight or underweight are not only exposed to a whole range of physical issues, they may also be a target for teasing in the playground - which often goes hand-in-hand with further mental and emotional problems too. All in all, aside from the effect that a child’s weight has on their physical wellbeing, it is also a significant part of how their self-image and self-esteem will develop throughout their life.

How can I help my child maintain a healthy weight?

Now we know more about why taking control and taking action when it comes to your preschool child’s weight is so key in caring for them as a whole. Let's look into practical, simple and effective ways that you can promote their healthy weight while also taking their emotional, mental, and social needs into account.

Consider lifestyle changes for the whole family

We believe that problems are better tackled as a team. Your preschool child will be much more inclined to be cooperative with changes to their diet and lifestyle if other members of the family are doing it too. Not only will it make them feel like they’re not alone - it will help them feel part of something special, too. For example, you could integrate ‘football Fridays’ into your family’s routine and get everyone to join in! Another idea would be to serve healthier meals for the whole family on certain days of the week.

Learn to recognise when your child is bored and not hungry

It may feel tempting to succumb to providing a tasty, sweet treat for your little one every time they ask. But many children will say they are hungry when they are bored or they want attention. To work out which it is, try offering a snack like a cracker or an orange. If neither of these options appeals to them, your child is most probably bored and not hungry. In addition, schedule snack times so that you can have better control over their calorie intake.

Avoid labelling food as ‘good’ or ‘bad’

In our book, either demonising certain foods or singing their praises is never a good idea. Remember, when it comes to healthy weight, it’s all about balance. Instead, try to show your child how different foods (yes, including carbs) can fit into their diet and lifestyle. It’s important that they don’t develop a negative relationship with certain foods, and understand that eating high-calorie snacks from time to time can contribute to their energy needs.

Encourage plain water instead of sugary drinks for snacks

There’s no denying that sugary drinks taste good. However, the fact is they’re just not very good for us! Children tend to take a particular liking to sugary drinks, so be careful about bringing them into the house. Encourage your preschooler to drink plain water instead, as this will introduce a good habit into their lifestyles.

Top Tip: If you feel confused about how to manage your child’s weight, consult your child’s doctor for a medical evaluation, or talk to your doctor, a registered dietitian nutritionist, or the school nurse for help. Remember that weight-loss approaches used for adults aren’t meant for young children.

What do I need to know about my child’s weight?

Read about the tricky issue of weight control for children before taking Unii's Toddler Nutrition Journey.