Child Who Is Overweight: Evaluating Nutrition and Activity Patterns

Topic Overview

When a doctor asks questions about your child's eating and activity habits, the information helps identify patterns that may lead to extra weight.

Nutrition history

You may be asked:

• To describe your family's meals and snacks during a typical day.
• What your child eats at school.
• Who is responsible for meals. Is it the parent, a relative, or another caregiver?
• How often a child or teen eats away from home, such as at school, in restaurants, or at friends' homes.

Physical activity

You may be asked whether your child:

• Takes part in physical activities at school or after school.
• Rides or walks to school.
• Plays actively with friends.
• Participates in organized sports.
• Helps with yard work or housework or has other chores.
• Spends a lot of time watching television, playing computer or video games, or reading.
• Has a safe place to play outdoors.
• Is under adult supervision when playing.