Overweight youth: changing behaviors that are barriers to health.

To motivate change, help parents to realize that overweight in their child is a health risk and not merely an aesthetic concern. Keep in mind that children can be motivated by different goals, such as increased athleticism, appearance, or social acceptance. Several short bursts of physical activity are usually more feasible than longer bouts, and may be more reinforcing for children and adolescents. Changing specific eating and activity behaviors is more realistic than setting a weight management goal.