Evidence shows that overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults, who are at increased risk of serious health problems.
If you make sure your children stay at a healthy weight you help them to get the best start in life. In adults, being overweight is linked to health problems such as type 2 diabetes and increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
As a parent, it can sometimes be difficult to identify that your child is overweight. You may notice signs, such as your child getting breathless easily during physical activity.
Or you may be contacted about your child's weight after your child is weighed and measured at school as part of the National Child Measurement Programme.
If your child is overweight, then achieving a healthy weight can bring significant health benefits. And as a parent, you can do a lot to help you child achieve a healthy weight.
National Child Measurement Programme
As part of the National Child Measurement Programme children in Reception Year (ages four and five) and Year 6 (ages 10 and 11) are being weighed and measured at school.
Height and weight, along with gender and age, can be used to calculate a child's body mass index. This is a measure of whether a child is a healthy weight.
You can learn more by reading The National Child Measurement Programme.
Take action
If you have learned that your child is overweight, then it's time to take action. Find out what to do when your child is overweight.
Children learn by example. One of the best ways to teach your children to eat well and get active is to do so yourself.
You can find further information and advice on helping your child to move more and eat better at Change4Life.
