Randomised controlled trial: A parent-based group education programme for overweight children

Childhood overweight and obesity is a significant community health problem with severe long-term complications. This paper aims to evaluate a four-by-two-hour weekly group parent education programme targeting children who are overweight. A randomised time series design with wait-list controls was conducted for overweight and obese children aged 3-10 years. A statistically significant reduction in child body mass index and energy intake was found post treatment; no differences were reported for child sedentary electronic media time, physical activity and waist circumference. Children's baseline activity levels were found to be at or slightly above national recommended standards. No change occurred in primary parent body mass index or waist circumference after treatment. A brief group education programme for parents was effective in reducing childhood overweight at 3 months follow-up.