If you see a dark room, you should turn on the lights.
Seth Godin, author, LinchPin: Are You Indispensible?

Successful Pediatric Obesity Programs seem hidden, like Easter Eggs in April grass, or root vegetables under the tundra. That’s in part because they are expensive, often residential, and insurance doesn’t cover them. But some of the best ones deserve highlighting.

There still is not a break-through kids diet book, perhaps because too many doctors are afraid to state the obvious: some kids need to go on a diet. Period. So, that will have to wait until next year.

(Hint: kids can go on a diet and maintain self-esteem. Actually, improve it. Without being mercilessly tormented by their only slightly leaner school bullies).

Meanwhile, some of the best pediatric obesity programs are ones in which parents participate. It’s tough for kids to lose weight in a house in which CheezDoodles are a TV snack. Or the tube/PC/Xbox/Nintendo is the center of evening and weekend attention.

So I like the programs at Healthy Buddies, in British Columbia, where kids teach kids. And the OWL program, especially for kids with diabetes, in New England.

A 2008 study of 140 childrens hospitals showed that Most kids diet programs are about adopting lifestyle changes and about 25% have a physician, dietitian, physical activity specialist and psychologist.

Have any programs or books worked for you?