Pediatric Programs
Obesity is the most prevalent nutritional disorder among children and adolescents in the United States. Unless a healthy body weight is achieved, obesity in children and teens can lead to health complications such as elevated blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, impaired respiratory function, and heart disease. In addition, psychological effects such as lower self esteem and a decline in educational performance can result from pediatric obesity.
We understand that weight management is not the sole responsibility of the child or teen, but a family issue. We work with your child as well as your family to make nutrition and healthy eating a fun and positive experience. Our goal is not just for your child to lose weight, but to feel empowered to make healthy choices when it comes to diet and exercise. In addition, we work hard to make sure your child feels good about himself, regardless of the number of the scale. We use an “all foods fit” approach, where no food is ever off limits completely. Instead we focus on healthy daily choices and “sometimes” foods.
Our weight management program for children and teens is entirely customized to each individual client. The program is based off of the nationally recognized Healthy ‘n Fit Weight Management Program, which was created by the Vernon Nutrition Center’s founder Erin Palinski, RD, CDE, LDN, CPT. This program takes a comprehensive approach to weight loss by providing children and their families individualized and structured nutrition counseling on topics such as portion control, healthy snacking, emotional eating and increasing physical activity. But most importantly, our weight management program makes living a healthy lifestyle a fun and positive experience for your entire family.
This program includes 6- 30 minute individual sessions with your dietitian every two weeks over a three month period.
Our structured programs are available for children from age 6 and older. For children under the age of 6, please call our office directly to discuss the most appropriate program structure for your child.
The Healthy Child Program
Whether you have a picky eater, a child displaying a slow rate of growth, or just want to ensure your child is meeting his nutritional needs, this program is for you. Your dietitian will work together with both your child and yourself to discuss his dietary needs and create a customized plan to help him achieve his health goals. Strategies such as overcoming picky eating, healthy school lunches, balancing nutrition with physical activity, and much more can all be included.
This package includes an initial nutrition assessment along with three monthly follow up visits to ensure your child’s nutrition is at it’s peak.