Childhood obesity is a symptom that is characterized by excess weight well above the prescribed limit for their height and age. Doctors define obesity as having a body mass index well above average. There are over 15% of American children considered obese and this percentage is alarmingly on the increase.

Childhood obesity can result from irregular eating habits and over eating. The lunches most children bring to school, many are packed with junk food and snack items instead of a healthy, balanced meal. Eating out on a regular basis also contributes to weight gain in children. Children that eat meals at home with all other family members typically weigh less than children of families who eat out several times a week.

Lack of physical activity is a great factor when it comes to overweight children. If a child sits around watching TV, playing video games and munching, they are more likely to be obese. On the other hand when a child gets at least 30 minutes of exercise each day they will be less likely to be overweight. Do not be afraid to face the truth and take prompt action as disregarding childhood obesity will not only prolong the problem but further aggravate it

Over the past 20 years, overweight and obesity among children has skyrocketed from 8% to 33%. This makes overweight and obesity the most serious health issue facing our children. Research from top universities shows that overweight children are likely to become more and more overweight, and that 90% of overweight kids will become obese adults. Whether you are just beginning to wonder if that baby fat will ever go away or if you have tried everything else and failed, then a weight loss camp is the answer.

The number of weight loss camps for obese kids are continuously on the increase. This summer, children from all over the nation are expected to flock to weight loss camps in the hope that, when they return home, they will be a little lighter and a little faster on their feet. There are dozens of camps scattered about the country. Most take both boys and girls, and all insist that they provide as much fun as regular camps - apart from rigorous weight loss programs.

In most weight loss camps, traditional activities like hiking, swimming and outdoor activities are augmented with nutrition and cooking classes, as well as a cognitive behavioral therapy program that teach campers successful weight management. Campers learn to record their food intake and amount of exercise, as well as keep a journal about their thoughts and feelings in the process. But at weight-loss camps, obese kids join others who are facing the same problems. This exposure, camp officials say, often leads to the creation of a supportive community.

In most weight loss camps for obese kids, each day is separated into five scheduled activity periods. Kids are asked to engage in activities that include kayaking, games, aerobics, self-defense classes and talent shows. Campers are served three meals and two snacks daily, receiving a total of 1,200 calories and no more than 120 grams of fat. In addition, campers wear pedometers and must take a minimum of 10,000 steps a day. Not all camps however follow the same regimen - although all of them make sure that the kids are in a safe, homogenous, no threatening environment. it is crucial that kids feel emotionally secure. In other words, no ragging, no teasing and no bullying allowed.