Childhood obesity is one of the most common pediatric problems, particularly for children in Louisiana. As children grow older, they are more likely to experience obesity. This brings increased health risks and psychological effects too. If you want a better life and better health for your overweight child, ask your pediatrician for a referral. We want to help your child have a healthy future!
Physical Health Risks of Childhood Obesity
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Prediabetes
- Fatty liver disease
- Gallstones
- Gastroesophageal reflux (heart burn)
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain and muscle aches
- Hyperandrogenism (polycystic ovary syndrome)
Social/Psychological Risks of Childhood Obesity
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety and depression
- Difficulty socializing
- Social isolation
- Victimization, teasing, bullying
How Wonder Kids Works
Using evidence based techniques, you and your child will learn how to make a meaningful change in your child’s health and future through a behavioral and lifestyle treatment program. Our child focused program is family centered and coordinated by a multidisciplinary team:
- Experienced pediatricians
- Registered dietitian
- Psychologist/social worker/case manager
- Exercise specialists
Services Included
- Focus on healthy diet, changing nutrition habits with a focus on fruits and vegetables and healthy drinks
- Exercise and fitness experiences, with opportunities for physical activity and reduction of time spent with TV and computer/video games
- Behavioral counseling
- Support and education for child and family; connect to community resources
- Medications as needed
The Process
The Wonder Kids program is available from 8:30 to 4 p.m. on Fridays at the WK Children’s Specialty Clinic. It is available to children ages 2-18 who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) at or above 95th percentile of the CDC sex-specific BMI charts.
- Referral from pediatrician, including lab work and assessment
Download Referral Form
- Initial appointment of 1 hour
- Follow up visits of 30 minutes, the number based on severity of the disease
Commit to a healthy future for your child, and we’ll work together to make it a reality.