My nephew is almost 18 months old, and is still under 20 LBS, and hasnt walked yet. Should I be concerned?

I would be concerned. My son is 5 months and 18 pounds so I don't see why a child that is almost 2 years old would be UNDER 20 pounds, that can't be healthy and he should definitely be walking by now. Also, juicy juice is NOT a substitute for fruits and vegetables! As for your concerns about him not getting enough attention, I agree with Al, try to give him as much attention as you can when you're around.

Also, I know it may be hard, but if you have genuine concerns about the well-being of your nephew then you should address them with the parents. They may get upset, but its also likely that they will take your concerns into consideration. You may have to "lead by example" in this situation, buy him a few children's books and read to him while his parents are around. Hopefully once they see how much he is learning from them, they'll take some initiative.

You are not wrong. However, reading to him isn't an issue. It sounds like he is potentially being neglected. What you do is up to you. Ask if he has seen a doctor recently about his lack of growth or delayed milestones. If not, offer to bring him and his mother to the appointment. Tell her that you will back off if the doctor says that he is just fine. Offer your assistance by taking him more often and feeding him good stuff.

There is nothing wrong with mac and cheese and beefaroni, of course, but if all he gets is a juicy juice at lunch, that is pretty low in the fruit and veggie dept.

No you should defenetly be concerned. He should be walking at around 12 months and eating 3 meals a day, and not just Chef Boyardi or whatever and Macaroni and Cheese. You should have them take him to the doctors because this might be serious. Why did they have a baby if they are going to ignore him and give him unhealthy foods and not even read?! Its obvious that this is affecting his health and he should defenetly see a specialist immediately!

You can be concerned, but it sounds like his parents are neglectful and don't care. If you see signs of actual abuse, I would recommend calling CPS. But in the meantime, if he is fed, clothed, and has a clean living environment, there isn't much you can do, except for trying to provide him with the attention he needs when you see him.

Can you offer to babysit and then give him some healthy foods, read to him, encourage physical play?

you are right to be concerned about the welfare of what sounds like a neglected, underfed child. But you aren't his parent, so you really have no say except to suggest healthy food choices and activities, or keep him as often as you can so you can do your small bit. You could report the parents to the authorities but they are so stretched he'd need to be bleeding and a skeleton covered in cob webs for them to act.

You are correct that lack of stimulation at this age, and younger, can cause him to be retarded.

My daughter is 18 months and 20 lbs. However, because she is active and has met/exceeded her milestones, the doctor doesn't worry. In your nephew's case, I am sure it is a worry. But do you have the power to do anything?