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We often criticize the school environment for not keeping kids active. But it turns out they’re most likely to gain weight during July and August.

Summer vacation and the temptations that come with it can be too much for kids to resist.

They tend to eat more junk food and fewer fruits and veggies in the summer. In overweight children, the problem is worse, about 70% see significant weight gain in the summer months.

“In some kids, they actually undo all the good work they’ve done throughout the year and gain more in the summer.”

Registered dietitian, Linda Gillis, says when you eliminate the structure of school, good food habits suffer. Without planned meals, the food groups often get forgotten. Later bedtimes are also to blame. A change in sleep routine can cause increased appetite.

“Young kids do spend more active time outside in the summer months but they also tend to watch more tv and play more video games.”

Too much screen time and boredom causes a spike in mindless snacking.

Gillis encourages eating three meals a day with structured snacks in between to avoid over eating. And plan ahead for functions that include food.

“We make sure they eat something before they go so they’re not as tempted. We may suggest that the parent brings a healthy choice so that they may eat some of the chips and treats that are there but they have a healthy choice with it.”

Enjoy the indulgences of summer- in moderation.

Gillis tells parents to be discreet when checking up on their kids’ eating habits in public. Creating a secret signal telling your child to slow down will give them the hint without embarrassing them.