If your child's pediatrician believes weight loss is in order, the goal will be approximately one pound per month. That may not sound like a lot, but remember that your child is also growing taller and developing and will grow into at least some of the excess weight as time progresses. A conservative approach will ensure that she isn't losing weight too rapidly and is still getting the nutrients she needs for proper growth.

Goal Setting

Setting your child's sights on a magic number on the scale may backfire. While ideally you do want him to reach a healthy BMI for his age, it's more important that he look at this as a lifelong venture, not just a race to the finish line. Stay away from appearance- or popularity-related goals, and focus instead on gaining fitness skills. Here are some examples of healthy objectives:

• Stay steady. An initial goal for your child should be for him to not gain any further weight.

• Feel better. If your child's weight issues are causing medical complications such as orthopedic problems or sleep apnea, improving his health and well-being are important goals.

• Energize! Goals can be a simple as having enough energy to go on a challenging hiking or camping trip.

• Go further and faster. If your child gets winded when walking or is uncomfortable with long periods of activity because of the extra weight he's carrying around, ease of movement is a great incentive.

• Personal best. Some kids do find that reaching a new height in a challenging activity is just the push they need. The goal of walking the extra half-mile or swimming another two laps may be what they require to keep them focused.