What is her suggested target weight and how can I help her lose weight?

My daughter is 8 years old and I am concerned about her weight.  She is in the first grade because she was born 4 months premature weighing 1 lb 4 ounces.  She had a bit of a learning delay.  I am concerned that she may be overweight and I want to help her lose weight. She is currently active but she doesn't know how to ride a bike yet.  What are some suggestions for putting her on a diet and what should be her daily caloire intake?  Should I put her on a 2000 calorie diet or shold I start with 1500?  Please help a concerned mom.

Thank you

[Renee Radenberg]

From the measurements you wrote, her weight is very above the 95th percentile and her height is below the 5th percentile for her age. It is recommended to increase children's physical activities (play, dance, sports) to lose weight, and not lower calorie intake due to the need of calories for growth. Limit time in front of the TV or non-active-video games. There have been studies showing the longer the length of time a child sit in front of the TV, the greater the weight gain. The calorie intake for a growing 8 year old is approximately 2000 calories a day that are eaten as three meals and snacks between meals. Limit high sugar drinks/snacks, and try replacing with milk/yogurt or fruit/popcorn/low-fat cheese. Additional suggestions: cook only low fat meats (chicken, fish, loin of pork) or non-meat sources (soy products, nuts), low fat vegetarian combinations (rice & beans, pasta & beans, low fat cheese & pasta), fat free or low fat dairy products (skim milk, 1% milk, low fat cheese, low fat yogurts, low fat soy milk/yogurt), use plant oils, non trans-fat margarines, and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Eat daily high fiber breads and cereals (oatmeal) and limit ‘junk’ foods.