Nearly one out of five of kids between the ages of 2 and 19 are considered obese in the United States. At 17 percent of kids, that's 12.7 million children in the United States alone, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But there is positive news: childhood obesity can be prevented. During this September's National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, University of North Texas nutrition lecturer Ann Afflerbach offers tips for families to help ensure their children don't become part of those statistics.

Contact Afflerbach at Ann.Afflerbach@unt.edu.

What basic things parents can do to encourage healthy eating in kids?

"There are many things parents can do to establish healthy eating early and to prevent problems with obesity," said Afflerbach. "Buy whole foods versus packaged items. Expose children at an early age to healthy foods, and let them try new things. Have nutritional items readily available in the house. Make sure children eat three meals per day."

Afflerbach added that it's important to "get the whole family on the bandwagon" and to model eating well. Kids, like adults, and are more likely to eat healthy food if everyone else around them is doing the same.

What can parents do to change a child's eating patterns?

"Start small and make little changes," Afflerbach said. For example, if your child is used to eating fast food every day, "move toward every other day."

She added that most foods don't have to be completely off limits, and parents should "teach children the importance of moderation."

"With the exception of something harmful, you don't have to limit any food 100 percent. Just let kids know that those are sometimes foods."

What can families do to eat healthy on a budget?

"Eating healthy does not have to be a budget breaker, but I will have clients tell me the dollar menu is more affordable and easier," Afflerbach said. "Eating healthy may take a little planning, but can be cheaper in the long run."

As for meal options, Afflerbach said, there are plenty: "Frozen vegetables, cooked with steamed rice and served with your choice of meat, tofu or scrambled eggs, is a quick, easy dinner. Having dried or canned beans available is a good idea also. Cook a pot of pinto, black or navy beans and serve them with various grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, or pasta and vegetables, for an easy dinner."

She also suggested frequent grocery shopping. This allows families to worry less about money lost when fresh foods spoil. "I used to envy people who would go to the store once per month until I realized they were only buying packaged items," she said.

How will families know their kids are on the right nutritional track?

"Take your child for annual exams at the doctor's office," said Afflerbach. "They'll monitor your child's growth and point out potential areas for concern."

Are there things beyond eating that families should focus on?

"Being active is important," said Afflerbach. "It's recommended that kids get at least 30 minutes of activity each day beyond activity, like P.E. class, they may get in school."

Also, parents can find unique ways to get their kids interested in what goes in their bodies and to have conversations about food. "Take a field trip to the grocery store, or ask your children to help you cook in the kitchen," she said.

When should parent should parents ask for help?

"Find outside help if you or your child is experiencing resistance that your family cannot move past," Afflerbach said, adding that this is especially important if your child has a medical condition like diabetes or if the child is prescribed heart medication.