How to Make a Child Gain Weight

These days many parents are concerned about their children being overweight. It can also be just as worrisome to have a child who is underweight and has difficulty gaining pounds. If you are a parent of an underweight child, there are a few things you can do to help them gain weight and stay healthy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Diet

1. Add protein and healthy fats to your child's food. Lean meats, soy products, nuts and nut-butters, whole milk and avocados are all healthy and high caloric additions to your child's diet.
2. Provide an array of snacks. Frequent snacking on things like peanut butter and crackers, cheese cubes and the occasional cookie have the calorie content to help your child gain weight.
3. Limit beverages during mealtime, because your child can fill up too quickly if she drinks too much water or juice with her dinner.

Lifestyle

4. Visit your child's pediatrician. Some children suffer from allergies that prevent them from properly absorbing their food's nutrition. Your doctor can diagnose allergies and rule out any other ailments that may be preventing your child from gaining weight.
5. Keep a food journal and show it to your doctor. Track your child's food intake for a week or two so you can see if he is actually eating enough or if his trouble gaining weight may have another cause.
6. Start your child on an exercise regime. Focus on strenght training work outs, such as yoga and pilates, which can help build muscle mass.
7. Persevere. Be patient and work with your child to figure out what works best for her.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using junk food to pack on the pounds. Although the high caloric content of sodas, candy and chips seems like a quick way to bulk up your child, they have little to no nutrional value and can cause further health problems.