Why Childhood Obesity Is Rising in India & What Parents Must Do

The Morning That Changed Everything. Priya arrived at her Banjara Hills office at 9:15 AM, already exhausted. She’d spent the morning battling with her 8-year-old son, Arjun, about breakfast he’d refused his dosa and begged for the chocolate cereal

He saw an advertisement during his favorite cartoon. Later that evening, she received a call from the school nurse. Arjun’s BMI was in the 92nd percentile. “Madam, your son is clinically overweight. We need to discuss this urgently.”

Like thousands of working mothers across Hyderabad, Priya felt a wave of guilt wash over her. Between her demanding job at an IT firm, managing the household, and ensuring her child’s education, when did healthy eating slip away? She wasn’t alone in this struggle. Across India, 27 million children and adolescents are expected to be living with obesity by 2030, accounting for 11% of the global burden.

This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a health crisis unfolding in our homes, schools, and communities. And if you’re a working parent in Hyderabad juggling career and family, this article is your roadmap to understanding and tackling this silent epidemic.

The Alarming Reality: India’s Childhood Obesity Crisis by the Numbers

Let’s talk facts, because understanding the magnitude of this problem is the first step toward solving it.

National Statistics That Demand Attention

According to comprehensive research spanning two decades, the pooled prevalence of childhood obesity in India is 8.4%, while childhood overweight stands at 12.4%. That means approximately one in every eight Indian children is either overweight or obese.

But here’s what makes this even more concerning: the combined prevalence increased from 16.3% in 2001-2005 to 19.3% after 2010—a nearly 20% jump in less than a decade. The World Obesity Federation projects that by 2035, India will be home to 83 million children with overweight or obesity, representing a prevalence rate of 24%.

Hyderabad’s Unique Challenge

Research specifically conducted in Hyderabad reveals troubling patterns. A study among urban adolescents found that the overall prevalence of overweight was 6.1% among boys and 8.2% among girls, with 1.6% and 1.0% classified as obese, respectively. Another comprehensive study of government and private schools in Hyderabad confirmed that obesity prevalence is significantly higher in private schools (14.0%) compared to government schools (7.2%)—a clear indicator of how socioeconomic factors drive this epidemic.

The Working Mother Factor

Here’s a statistic that might hit close to home: Children of working women were found to be at a higher risk of obesity compared to children of non-working women. Before you feel guilty, understand this isn’t about blame—it’s about understanding the challenges so we can develop practical solutions.

The research shows multiple contributing factors:

• Ultra-Processed Food consumption in India surged from $900 million in 2006 to $37.9 billion in 2019, growing at over 33% annually
• Limited time for meal preparation leading to increased reliance on convenience foods
• Less supervision during after-school hours
• Higher household income enabling greater access to junk food

Why Is This Happening? The Perfect Storm of Modern Urban Life

Understanding the root causes helps us develop targeted solutions. Let’s break down the factors turning our children’s health crisis into an epidemic.

1. The Digital Childhood: Screen Time Explosion

Walk into any Hyderabad home, and you’ll likely find children glued to smartphones, tablets, or television screens. Research reveals a stark reality: over 90% of obese children had screen time exceeding two hours daily.

The impact is two-fold: excessive screen time not only reduces physical activity but also exposes children to aggressive food marketing. Studies show that screen-time was significantly associated with obesity risk among adolescents (1.63 times higher risk).

Think about Arjun from our opening story—how many advertisements for sugary cereals, chocolates, and fast food does he see during his favorite cartoon shows?

2. The Vanishing Playgrounds: Urbanization’s Hidden Cost

Remember when we played cricket in the streets, climbed trees in parks, and cycled around our neighborhoods? Today’s Hyderabad children face a different reality:

• Increasing traffic and safety concerns restricting outdoor play
• Shrinking open spaces due to rapid urbanization
• Air pollution making outdoor activities less appealing
• Academic pressure prioritizing study time over physical activity

Research confirms that the prevalence of overweight was significantly lower (3.1%) among adolescents participating regularly in outdoor games for 6 or more hours per week.

3. The Convenience Food Trap: When Time Becomes the Enemy

Here’s where it gets personal for working parents. Between morning meetings, school pickups, homework supervision, and household management, cooking traditional, nutritious meals often feels impossible.

The result? 70% of obese children consumed junk food more than three times a week. Research specifically examining Hyderabad found that adolescents who watched television 3 or more hours daily had an overweight prevalence of 10.4% compared to lower rates in more active children.

The irony? We work hard to provide better lives for our children, but inadvertently compromise their health in the process.

4. The Wealth Paradox: When Prosperity Becomes a Problem

Unlike Western countries, where obesity often correlates with poverty, India presents a unique pattern. A study from northern India found childhood obesity prevalence of 5.59% in higher socioeconomic strata compared to 0.42% in lower socioeconomic strata.

In Hyderabad’s upscale neighborhoods—Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, Gachibowli—the prevalence is even higher. Why? Greater purchasing power enables:

• Frequent dining at restaurants
• Easy access to home delivery services
• Availability of expensive processed snacks and beverages
• Car-dependent lifestyles reducing walking

5. The Education Burden: Academic Pressure vs. Physical Health

Hyderabad’s competitive education environment, with its focus on entrance exams and academic excellence, often sidelines physical education and sports. Children spend hours in coaching classes, leaving little time for physical activity.

Research shows that children studying in private schools were at higher risk of developing obesity compared to those in government schools—partly due to the intense academic pressure in private institutions.

6. The Parental Influence: Genetics and Lifestyle Modeling

Research reveals a powerful truth: children whose mothers were obese had 1.81 times higher odds of being overweight or obese themselves. This isn’t just genetics—children mirror their parents’ eating habits, activity levels, and relationship with food.

Additionally, children with a family history of obesity were at an increased risk of developing obesity, highlighting the combined role of genetic predisposition and learned behaviors.

7. Cultural Beliefs: When Love Means More Food

Many Indian families, including in Hyderabad, still associate a chubby child with good health and prosperity. Grandparents often encourage overeating, and refusing food is seen as disrespectful. These cultural attitudes, while rooted in love, can inadvertently harm children’s health.

The Hidden Costs: Why This Matters More Than You Think

Childhood obesity isn’t just about appearance—it’s about your child’s future health, happiness, and quality of life.

Immediate Health Consequences

• Type 2 Diabetes: Once an adult disease, now increasingly diagnosed in children
• High Blood Pressure: Putting strain on young hearts
• Fatty Liver Disease: Fat accumulation in the liver causes cells to malfunction and eventually leads to fibrosis and cirrhosis
• Joint Problems: Excess weight straining growing bones and joints
• Sleep Apnea: Affecting sleep quality and cognitive development
• Early Puberty: Hormonal imbalances caused by excess body fat

Long-Term Health Risks

Research confirms that 80% of adolescents who are obese end up with obesity in adulthood, creating a lifetime of health challenges including cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and chronic kidney disease.

Psychological Impact

The emotional toll is equally devastating:

• Low self-esteem and poor body image
• Social isolation and bullying
• Depression and anxiety
• Reduced academic performance
• Limited participation in physical activities and sports

Economic Burden

In 2019, obesity-related costs were estimated at nearly $29 billion, or 1% of India’s GDP. By 2060, this figure is projected to reach $839 billion—2.5% of GDP—unless urgent action is taken.

For individual families, this means:

• Higher medical expenses throughout life
• Lost income due to health-related absences
• Reduced career opportunities due to health limitations
• Increased insurance premiums

What Parents Must Do: A Comprehensive Action Plan

Now for the good news: childhood obesity is largely preventable and reversible with the right approach. Here’s your practical, step-by-step guide tailored for busy Hyderabad parents.

Strategy 1: Reclaim Family Meal Times

The Challenge: Between your 9-to-6 job, traffic on Outer Ring Road, and evening commitments, cooking seems impossible.

The Solution:

• Meal prep on weekends: Dedicate 2-3 hours on Sunday to prepare base ingredients—cut vegetables, cook lentils, marinate proteins
• One-pot meals: Khichdi, vegetable pulao, and mixed dal are nutritious and quick
• Smart kitchen appliances: Invest in a pressure cooker or instant pot to reduce cooking time
• Involve your children: Even young kids can help wash vegetables or set the table, teaching them about healthy food
• Traditional wisdom: Return to simple South Indian staples—idli, dosa, upma—which are inherently healthier than packaged foods

The Goal: Aim for at least 5 home-cooked family meals per week.

Strategy 2: Navigate the Junk Food Minefield

The Challenge: Every birthday party, school event, and weekend outing revolves around pizza, burgers, and ice cream.

The Solution:

• The 80/20 Rule: Make 80% of meals healthy, allow 20% flexibility for treats
• Healthier alternatives at home:

  • Baked sweet potato fries instead of regular fries
  • Homemade smoothies instead of packaged juice
  • Air-popped popcorn instead of chips
  • Fresh fruit instead of candy

• Portion control: When eating out, share one meal between two children or take leftovers home
• Read labels: Teach children to check sugar and fat content
• Smart shopping: Don’t buy junk food “for the house”—if it’s not there, they can’t eat it

Important: Never use food as a reward or punishment—this creates unhealthy emotional relationships with eating.

Strategy 3: Conquer the Screen Time Battle

The Challenge: Your child throws tantrums without their tablet, and you need those 30 minutes of peace after a long workday.

The Solution:

• Set clear limits: Maximum 1 hour of recreational screen time on weekdays, 2 hours on weekends
• Create tech-free zones: No devices during meals or in bedrooms
• Quality over quantity: Educational content over mindless scrolling
• Alternative activities: Keep board games, art supplies, and books easily accessible
• Lead by example: Put down your own phone during family time

Pro tip: Use parental controls and screen time management apps available on both Android and iOS.

Strategy 4: Make Physical Activity Non-Negotiable

The Challenge: Between homework, tuitions, and safety concerns, finding time and space for physical activity seems impossible.

The Solution:

For Working Parents with Limited Time:

• Morning routine: 15-minute yoga or exercise session before school
• Active commuting: If safe, walk to nearby destinations instead of driving
• Weekend adventures: Explore Hyderabad’s parks—Nehru Zoological Park, Lumbini Park, KBR National Park
• Family fitness: Evening walks around the neighborhood or apartment complex
• Sports enrollment: Consider swimming, tennis, or martial arts classes on weekends

Hyderabad-Specific Options:

• Sports academies: Gopichand Badminton Academy, various swimming pools across the city
• Parks and open spaces: Tank Bund, Necklace Road, Hussain Sagar Lake area for walks and cycling
• Indoor activities: Many apartments have gyms and play areas
• School sports: Encourage participation in school sports programs

The Goal: Aim for regular participation in outdoor games 6 or more hours per week, which research shows significantly reduces obesity risk.

Strategy 5: Address the Convenience Factor Head-On

For Busy Working Mothers: This is where modern solutions can truly help.

The reality of working in Hyderabad means unpredictable schedules, traffic delays, and limited time. While planning and home cooking are ideal, emergencies happen. This is where having reliable support systems becomes crucial.

When you’re stuck in a meeting that runs late, or your child suddenly develops a fever, having access to genuine medicines delivered quickly can be a lifesaver. Services like MedsTown, Hyderabad’s trusted 30-minute medicine delivery app, ensure that when health emergencies arise whether it’s nutritional supplements prescribed by your pediatrician, medications for obesity-related conditions, or routine health needs—you have 100% genuine medicines delivered reliably to your doorstep in just 30 minutes.

This isn’t about replacing healthy habits with convenience, but about having a safety net when you need it. Managing your child’s health journey sometimes requires prescribed supplements, vitamins, or medications, and knowing you can access these quickly and reliably removes one stressor from your already full plate.

Strategy 6: Build a Support System

The Challenge: You can’t do this alone, and you shouldn’t have to.

The Solution:

• Partner involvement: Ensure both parents share responsibility for children’s nutrition and activity
• Grandparent education: Lovingly explain health concerns and set boundaries about treats
• School collaboration: Work with teachers to ensure healthy snacks and adequate physical education
• Peer support: Connect with other parents facing similar challenges
• Professional guidance: Consult pediatricians, nutritionists, or child psychologists when needed

Strategy 7: Monitor Without Obsessing

The Challenge: You want to track progress without creating body image issues or food anxiety.

The Solution:

• Regular check-ups: Quarterly visits to pediatrician for weight and height measurements
• Focus on health, not appearance: Talk about feeling strong and energetic, not looking thin
• Celebrate non-scale victories: Improved stamina, better sleep, increased confidence
• Positive language: Avoid words like “fat,” “diet,” or “bad food” around children
• Family approach: Frame changes as “healthy family choices” not “your problem”

What to Track:

• Physical activity levels
• Variety of foods consumed
• Screen time hours
• Sleep quality and duration
• Mood and energy levels

Strategy 8: Address Emotional Eating

The Challenge: Food often becomes comfort during stress, boredom, or emotional distress.

The Solution:

• Identify triggers: Notice when your child reaches for food (stress, boredom, sadness)
• Alternative coping strategies:

  • Physical activity for stress relief
  • Creative activities for boredom
  • Conversation and connection for emotional support

• Mindful eating: Teach children to eat slowly, without screens, paying attention to hunger and fullness cues
• Model healthy coping: Show children how you handle stress without turning to food

Special Considerations for Hyderabad’s Working Parents

Navigating Social Pressures

Hyderabad’s vibrant social culture often centers around food—birthday parties at restaurants, weekend buffets, festival celebrations. Here’s how to navigate:

• Teach moderation: It’s okay to enjoy treats occasionally
• Focus on portion sizes: Take smaller servings at buffets
• Balance indulgent meals: If lunch was heavy, keep dinner light
• Stay active at events: Encourage children to play with friends rather than just eat

Dealing with Dual-Career Stress

When both parents work demanding jobs in Hyderabad’s IT sector or other industries:

• Meal delivery services: Use healthy meal prep services occasionally (choose ones with transparent ingredients)
• Flexible work arrangements: When possible, stagger schedules to ensure one parent is home for meals
• Weekend compensation: Make up for weekday limitations with quality family time on weekends
• Hire help strategically: Consider hiring a cook who specializes in healthy traditional meals

Managing Extended Family Influence

In joint families or when grandparents are involved in childcare:

• United front: Ensure all caregivers understand and follow the same health guidelines
• Education, not confrontation: Share pediatrician recommendations rather than personal opinions
• Compromise thoughtfully: Allow certain indulgences from grandparents while maintaining overall healthy patterns
• Respect while protecting: Honor elders while firmly maintaining health boundaries

Creating a Sustainable Long-Term Plan

This isn’t about a quick fix—it’s about building healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Month 1: Awareness and Assessment

• Get a comprehensive health check-up including BMI, blood sugar, and cholesterol
• Track current eating patterns and activity levels
• Identify major problem areas
• Set realistic, specific goals

Months 2-3: Gradual Changes

• Introduce one new healthy habit each week
• Reduce junk food gradually, not drastically
• Increase physical activity in 10-minute increments
• Involve children in meal planning and preparation

Months 4-6: Building Consistency

• Establish firm routines around meals and activity
• Address challenges as they arise
• Celebrate successes, however small
• Adjust strategies based on what works for your family

Beyond 6 Months: Lifestyle Integration

• Health choices become automatic, not effortful
• Children develop intrinsic motivation for healthy living
• Family culture shifts toward wellness
• Occasional indulgences don’t derail overall health

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a pediatric endocrinologist, nutritionist, or psychologist if:

• Your child’s BMI is above the 95th percentile (clinical obesity)
• There are signs of metabolic complications (high blood sugar, high cholesterol)
• Emotional or behavioral issues around food emerge
• Family efforts aren’t producing results after 6 months
• Your child shows signs of eating disorders

Hyderabad has excellent pediatric specialists at hospitals like Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Apollo Hospitals, and Care Hospitals who specialize in childhood obesity management.

The Bottom Line: Your Child’s Future Starts Today

As working parents in Hyderabad, you’re already juggling a thousand responsibilities. Adding “prevent childhood obesity” to your mental load can feel overwhelming. But here’s the empowering truth: small, consistent changes make a massive difference.

You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to cook elaborate meals every day or become a fitness trainer. What you need is:

✓ Awareness of the problem and its seriousness
✓ Commitment to making gradual, sustainable changes
✓ Consistency in implementing healthy habits
✓ Compassion for yourself and your child throughout the journey
✓ Community support from family, friends, and professionals

Remember Priya from our opening story? Six months after that call from the school nurse, Arjun has lost 5 kg, his energy levels have soared, and he’s excelling in swimming class. More importantly, the entire family has adopted healthier habits. Priya still works full-time, still deals with traffic on the ORR, and still has crazy days. But she’s made health non-negotiable.

The epidemic of childhood obesity in India is real, urgent, and alarming. But it’s not inevitable. Every meal you plan, every walk you take, every screen-free hour you create—these are investments in your child’s health, happiness, and future.

With India expected to have over 27 million children and adolescents living with obesity by 2030, the question isn’t whether we should act—it’s whether we’ll act soon enough.

Your child’s health journey starts with a single step. What will yours be today?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if my child is overweight or obese?

Use BMI (Body Mass Index) calculators specifically designed for children, which account for age and gender. For children aged 5-18 years, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends using IAP 2015 BMI charts. Your pediatrician can accurately assess this during regular check-ups. Generally, BMI above the 85th percentile indicates overweight, and above the 95th percentile indicates obesity.

2. Can childhood obesity be reversed, or is the damage permanent?

Good news—childhood obesity can absolutely be reversed! Research shows that when families make sustained lifestyle changes, children can return to healthy weight ranges. The key is addressing it early. However, 80% of obese adolescents become obese adults, so early intervention is crucial. The younger the child when intervention begins, the better the outcomes.

3. My child is a picky eater who only likes junk food. How do I change this?

Gradually introduce new foods without pressure. Children need to try new foods 10-15 times before accepting them. Make healthy food fun—create colorful plates, involve them in cooking, and model healthy eating yourself. Don’t keep junk food at home, and don’t make it a “forbidden fruit” which increases its appeal. Offer healthy alternatives that satisfy similar cravings (baked instead of fried, fruit instead of candy).

4. How much physical activity does my child actually need?

The World Health Organization recommends children aged 5-17 should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. This doesn’t have to be all at once—three 20-minute sessions throughout the day work just as well. Include a mix of aerobic activities (running, swimming, cycling), muscle-strengthening (climbing, push-ups), and bone-strengthening activities (jumping, skipping).

5. Is it okay to put my overweight child on a diet?

Never put children on restrictive diets without medical supervision. Children need adequate nutrition for growth and development. Instead of “dieting,” focus on building healthy eating patterns: more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limited processed foods. The goal is sustainable lifestyle changes, not temporary restrictions that can lead to disordered eating.

6. How do I limit screen time when my child needs devices for homework?

Distinguish between educational and recreational screen time. Educational screen time (online classes, homework) doesn’t count toward the 1-2 hour daily limit for recreational use. Set clear boundaries: devices only for specific purposes, no screens during meals, no devices in bedrooms at night. Use parental controls to enforce limits, and create a family charging station where all devices go after certain hours.

7. My parents/in-laws keep giving my child sweets and treats. How do I handle this?

Have a loving but firm conversation with grandparents, ideally supported by pediatrician recommendations. Explain that you’re not denying children joy, but protecting their health. Suggest alternative ways to show love—playing games together, reading stories, teaching them a skill. If necessary, set specific boundaries: one small treat per visit, only on weekends, etc. Remember, grandparents mean well—education, not confrontation, works best.

8. Should I discuss my child’s weight with them, or will this create body image issues?

Yes, discuss it, but frame it correctly. Focus on health, not appearance. Talk about becoming stronger, having more energy to play, protecting their heart and body. Never use shaming language or compare them to other children. Involve them in solutions: “Let’s think of fun activities we can do together” or “What healthy foods should we try this week?” Make it a positive family journey toward wellness, not a criticism of their body.

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References and Sources

This article is based on comprehensive research from peer-reviewed medical journals, national health surveys, and reputable health organizations. All claims are cited with evidence from:

National and International Health Organizations:

1. UNICEF India – “India: Overweight and obesity rising across all ages” (September 2025) https://www.unicef.org/india/press-releases/india-overweight-and-obesity-rising-across-all-ages-youngest-children-adults
2. World Obesity Federation – World Obesity Atlas 2024 https://www.worldobesity.org/resources/resource-library/world-obesity-atlas-2024
3. World Health Organization – Global Nutrition Targets 2025

Peer-Reviewed Research Studies:

4. Sethi V, et al. “Prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated demographic and health factors in India: Findings from Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS)” – Pediatric Obesity, April 2024 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijpo.13092
5. Singh S, et al. “Childhood obesity in India: A two-decade meta-analysis of prevalence and socioeconomic correlates” – Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health, August 2023 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221339842300177X
6. Gupta N, et al. “Epidemiology of childhood overweight & obesity in India: A systematic review” – PMC, 2016 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4859125/
7. Laxmaiah A, et al. “Factors affecting prevalence of overweight among 12- to 17-year-old urban adolescents in Hyderabad, India” – Obesity Research, June 2007 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17557974/
8. Katkuri S, et al. “A study of prevalence of obesity and its correlates among government and private school children in Hyderabad: a comparative study” – International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2015 https://www.msjonline.org/index.php/ijrms/article/view/1850
9. Hochdorn A, et al. “Cross-regional analysis of multiple factors associated with childhood obesity in India” – BMC Public Health, 2014 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25139390/
10. Kumar HN, et al. “Tackling the Rising Tide: Understanding the Prevalence of Childhood Obesity in India” – Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, PMC, 2024 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11189283/

National Health Surveys:

11. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India – Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) Report 2016-2018, New Delhi 2019
12. National Family Health Survey-4 (NFHS-4), 2015-2016
13. Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), 2024

Additional Research:

14. Blume Health – “Childhood Obesity in India: Comprehensive Guide” https://blume.health/conditions/childhood-obesity-in-india
15. Medanta – “Childhood Obesity in India: Causes, Risks, and Prevention Tips” (May 2025) https://www.medanta.org/patient-education-blog/obesity-in-children-in-india
16. The Week – “India’s alarming childhood obesity crisis: A looming global health threat” (September 2025) https://www.theweek.in/news/health/2025/09/19/india-s-alarming-childhood-obesity-crisis
17. Bharadwaj S, et al. “Overweight/Obesity Prevalence among Under-Five Children and Risk Factors in India” – Healthcare, PMC, 2022 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9460849/
18. Kumar S, Kelly AS. “Review of Childhood Obesity: From Epidemiology, Etiology, and Comorbidities to Clinical Assessment and Treatment” – Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2017
19. Sahoo K, et al. “Determinants, consequences and prevention of childhood overweight and obesity: An Indian context” – PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4266865/
20. Prasad PV, et al. “Prevalence and associated risk factors of overweight and obesity among adolescent population of India: a scoping review” – PMC, 2025 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12139068/

Additional Academic Sources:

21. Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) – BMI Charts 2015 for Indian Children
22. International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) – Body Mass Index Cut-offs for Childhood Obesity
23. CDC Growth Charts – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
24. Indian Economic Survey 2024-25 – Ultra Processed Food Consumption Data

Methodology Note: This article synthesizes findings from 24+ peer-reviewed studies, national health surveys involving over 400,000 children, and reports from international health organizations. All statistics are current as of 2024-2025 and specific to the Indian context, with particular attention to urban populations and Hyderabad-specific research where available.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and personalized medical guidance regarding your child’s health.