My 6 Year Old Is Underweight!!

I would get a second opinion. I would take her to an endocrinologist or talk to your pediatrician first to see what he/she thinks about this. I have an 8 yo that is very small but I am not a big person and neither is my husband. My husband was a premie too, he has a twin sister. I see pics of him when he was little and omg was he skinny and they took him to an endo doctor and nothing was wrong. I would definitely get a second opinion. Although your daughter just may be a small girl but check it out any way.

Hi, I just joined but your post stood out to me. I have 6 year old twins and one of them is not too much bigger than your dd. He is 36 pounds. I had his thyroid tested (b/c hyperthyroidism runs in my family) but he's fine. He just has a very fast metabolism. And he EATS like food is going out of style. LOL He can eat an entire pizza all to himself. It's crazy. I've been told by my pharmacist that PediaSure drinks are a good way to make sure they are getting the nutrients they need, but not to worry about his weight. As long as he's not losing he's fine.

It really sounds like she is healthy. If she is eating well and the ped is comfortable with her weight, then I wouldn't be too worried. My niece is 5 and about 31 pounds. She is as skinny as a rail, but eats like a horse! Is she getting snacks and healthy fats during the day? I'm sure she'll put on more weight as she grows.

I personally disagree with holding anyone up to a chart. Everyone is different. she is underweight but that's unique to her. so long as she is thriving and getting the nutrition she needs you have no worries. I have a son that was also early and is small and "under weight" and I have a child that is large and very big for his age. Don't worry about it. One thing you may want to give her just to ease your mind and for extra nutrients is the carnation breakfast packets, you mix them with whole milk, my kids like vanilla, and I let them have an endless supply of it along with healthy meals.

she could be right where she should though i would get some basic blood tests to be done .But i think the carnation drinks are good plus healthy snacks..my 5 yr old who was a premie is now 3'10" & 60lbs so as long as your daughter is healthy its great

Hi E., it is so hard to have picky eaters and kids that aren't gaining weight. I would suggest the pedia sure and a vitamin supplement. Maybe the reason some kids don't gain weight is because they aren't taking in enough nutrients. I would just try this for a bit and if you feel that she still isn't gaining weight, get a second opinion. It is always good to be sure. Also, some kids are petite for a bit and then as they get older they gain weight. My sister was a premie and as a toddler and older she was very petite. When she got into her teens, she looked normal and healthy. I also have twin niece and nephew, they were also premies, and girl if you were to see these 13 year olds, they are enormous. My sister gave them vitamins and a whole lot of fruits and vegetables. I wish you luck in whatever you try. Take care. N.