Advice for parents of overweight children

Children can become overweight when they get more energy from food and drink than they use through activity.

Overweight children are more likely to become overweight as adults. This could lead to long-term conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Making changes to their diet and activity levels can help them reach a healthy weight.

Check if your child is a healthy weight

It can be difficult to tell if a child is overweight as they're still growing.

You can check by calculating their body mass index (BMI).

The result will be given as a centile (or percentile).

You'll need to know their date of birth, height, weight and when you measured them.

Calculate your BMI for children and teenagers

Tips to help your child reach a healthier weight

Do

Don't

Further information

Access over 100 free healthy recipes

Filter recipes by ingredients and cooking time to find a new family favourite.

Visit recipes on NHS Healthier Families

Discover new games, activities and sports

Exercise is a great way to improve co-ordination and self-confidence.

Visit activities on NHS Healthier Families

Have a balanced diet

Children from the age of 2 years old should start to follow the Eatwell Guide.

The Eatwell Guide

Exercise guidelines for children

Children should be active every day to help them develop strong bones and muscles.