CDC study: Kids gaining weight during pandemic

With many schools teaching remotely during the pandemic, parents may have noticed that their kids have gained weight. In fact, a study from the CDC shows the rate of body mass index nearly doubled for people between the ages of 2 and 19.

Doctors blame the increase in screen time during the pandemic, a change in their sleep habits, an explosion in their stress level, lack of exercise and disruption of routines.

So what can you do to help with that?

"Check in with your child, see what their stress level is, could this be at the heart of some of what they’re eating? Help them to tune into their bodies and investigate when they’re really hungry or when they’re eating because they’re stressed, bored or anxious," said Dr. Susan Albers, PsyD, with Cleveland Clinic.

She adds to be sure your child is getting enough sleep, isn’t eating in front of screens, has access to healthy foods and is staying active during the day.