The research shows that parents of overweight and obese children are often not concerned or even aware that their child is overweight.

Parents of 341 four year olds completed a questionnaire, which asked them about their concern for their child's current weight, whether they felt their child was currently overweight or underweight and how their child's weight compared to their peers.

All children were measured to determine their weight status according to international standards. The rate of obesity in the children tested was 19 per cent, however only 5 per cent of parents were concerned that their child was currently overweight.

Despite the increased media attention and publicity about obesity in children, many parents still thought their overweight/obese child had a normal weight for their age, whilst others with children in the normal weight range felt they were underweight.

I believe that this shows just how common being overweight has become. The number of overweight and obese preschoolers is increasing. These children are more likely to be overweight.

Increasing parent awareness about children's weight issues and addressing their concerns should be part of a broad-based approach to encourage healthy and active lifestyles for all children, and this is what GKA are planning on setting up next year – if you would like to take part in a Parent Education session anywhere in New Zealand let us know your details by clicking here.