This is something that we need to do from an early age if possible. However, there are many times that is not the cases. We end up pacifying our child until they are already over weight and need to put some structure on our children's eating habits.

• Knocking their self esteem wont do anything positive

When a child is over weight they are already feeling the impact that the world puts on them for being over weight. To get the healthier patterns started it will take a different approach than simply telling them they have gained weight. That will not adjust their thinking at all. In fact it may start them thinking that you are taking digs at them for your amusement.

• Talk about it all

Start out by sitting down with your child if they are old enough to understand what you are talking about. Then discuss some of the changes you want help your child take. Explain to them that you are worried about their health and that their bodies can end up with severe issues if they do not change there eating habits. This way your child will know you care about them, not that you want to embarrass them.

• Make a plan and include your family

Then write a plan down of the foods your child will eat on their own for snacks. Then also add to that plan what you will make as their meals. The key will be making the meals that are healthy for the entire family. This will make it easier for your child to bend into the changes without having to feel like they are being punished.

• Make the changes starting with adding more water

It will also be important to make sure that your family is drinking plenty of water. The water can be slightly flavored. However, after a week or so of drinking water, the child will grow used to it. Then they will want to be drinking it regularly.

• Be consistent even when it is hard

Sweets are the same way. If you have allowed your child to eat sweets on a regular basis, it may take a little encouragement and consistency to get the sweets out of your home and away from your child. However, replacing those sweets with some fruit will do the trick, they just wont realize it right off the bat.

Salty snacks and high fat foods are just as bad as the sweets. Take the time to look at what they are eating that is high in calories and fat. You will find that you can eliminate a great deal of unnecessary fat and calories.

Helping your child think health without sending the wrong message (like you are fat) is not easy. However for the child full life they will need to learn to eat healthy, or they will have harsh consequences. I know it is hard to say no now, when they cry, fuss and complain. But if they get sick in the future, wouldn't that be much worse.