From the moment pregnancy begins, your baby undergoes incredible developments in just 40 weeks, preparing their body for birth. After birth, growth slows down a little compared to the prenatal period. However, in the first 6 months, babies experience rapid growth and development. Gaining between 600 and 1000 grams during this period is normal. If by the time they are 6 months old, their weight is around 8 kg, this indicates healthy growth (individual differences and health conditions can change the process and values, so the information provided is general—always seek professional advice for your child).
After 6 months, growth slows down again, and babies typically gain between 400 and 600 grams between 6 and 12 months. It’s completely normal for weight gain to decrease after 6 months. Some mothers may mistakenly believe that slower weight gain indicates a health problem and rush to the doctor, but this is a normal part of the process.
As your child grows, the situation doesn’t change much. A sedentary lifestyle, increased screen time, living in an apartment, and similar factors can lead to unnecessary and unhealthy weight gain in children. But don’t worry, there’s always something you can do! ?
Set Realistic Goals for Your Child
If your child is overweight and needs to go on a diet, make sure to set realistic goals. A diet that leads to feelings of failure will only weaken their spirit.
Encourage Exercise
Enroll your child in any sports activity such as swimming, basketball, or tennis. If that’s not possible, make sure they walk for at least 30 minutes a day. This way, they will not only burn calories but also promote growth and potentially lose weight.
Ensure They Eat Healthy, Nutritious Foods
Encourage your child to eat 3 main meals and 3-4 snacks per day. This will prevent them from feeling hungry for long periods, so they won’t overeat during meals. Ensure they eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and drink plenty of water. For example, a whole orange has fewer calories than orange juice, but the fiber in the fruit will make your child feel fuller. In meals, encourage the consumption of low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese, reducing the calories they take in.
Change the Family’s Eating Habits
If your child sees eating as a chore, this is a dangerous situation. Make sure meals are eaten in the kitchen or dining room, away from distractions like television. If your child eats while watching TV, they may not realize how much they’re eating, which could be harmful. If you snack constantly at home, avoid vegetables or salads, and have desserts or pastries after meals, or drink only 2-3 glasses of water per day, your child will likely imitate your habits. Start eating healthily so that your child can learn to make healthy eating choices too.
Implement Behavioral Changes
To achieve an ideal weight with proper nutrition and physical activity, keep track of what your child eats and remove high-calorie foods from your kitchen. Eating during TV time can lead to unnecessary snacking, which is another risky behavior. Reward your child when they reach the exercise goal you’ve set. The family can work together as a group to plan weekly activities and achieve a goal.
Monitor Growth
Check your child’s growth at least every two weeks, including weight and height, and if necessary, consult with their doctor or dietitian every 2-3 months for blood tests. Don’t weigh your child every day as this can cause unnecessary stress.
Be Supportive