Evidence-based recommendations for the development of obesity prevention programs targeted at preschool children

in Obesity Reviews (2012), 13(Suppl 1), 129-132

As previously discussed in other papers in this Supplement of Obesity Reviews, the Toybox intervention was developed using an evidence-based approach, and refined through pilot testing. As part of that ... [more ▼]

As previously discussed in other papers in this Supplement of Obesity Reviews, the Toybox intervention was developed using an evidence-based approach, and refined through pilot testing. As part of that evidence base, two pieces of work were carried out. First, a series of narrative reviews of educational strategies and psychological approaches explaining young children’s acquisition and formation of energy-balance related behaviours, and facilitating their management (Gibson et al1; Vögele et al2; Kreichauf et al3, all published in this supplement). Second, a systematic review to identify behavioural models underpinning school-based interventions in pre-school and school settings for the prevention of obesity in children aged 4-6 years (Nixon et al4; published in this supplement). The aim of this short paper is to summarise and translate the findings from these two reviews into practical evidence-based recommendations for researchers and policy makers to consider when developing and implementing interventions for the prevention of overweight and obesity in young (aged 4-6) children. [less ▲]