My 12-year-old son is gaining weight quite rapidly. He was
always "just right" until middle-school homework cut into
his play time. Should I start him on an exercise program?
-
Rose
As kids get older, they often have more homework and other
responsibilities to balance. Help your son make a schedule, such as
an hour of playtime after school, followed by time for homework.
Encourage him to get involved in an activity he enjoys, whether
it's a team sport like basketball or soccer or just biking
around the neighborhood with friends. He'll be more likely to
stick with it if it doesn't feel like a chore. Keep lots of
healthy foods in the house and be a good role model - he'll see
how important exercise is if you make time for it too.
For more information, check out these articles:
Fitness and Your 6- to 12-Year-Old
Kids and Exercise
Overweight and Obesity
Understanding Puberty
Reviewed by:
Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: October 2006
Originally reviewed by:
Neil Izenberg, MD
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