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Preschool Participation and BMI at Kindergarten Entry: The Case for Early Behavioral Intervention

Meghan E McGrady1, Monica J Mitchell, Sarah N Theodore

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, 4150 Edwards Building One, P.O. Box 210376, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0376, USA.

Journal of Obesity
|August 20, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Public preschool attendance is linked to higher risks of overweight and obesity in young children. This finding highlights potential public health concerns regarding early childhood education and weight status.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The preschool years (ages 3-5) are crucial for development.
  • Emerging research suggests a connection between preschool attendance and later weight status, including obesity.
  • Understanding these links is vital for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between public preschool attendance and weight status at kindergarten entry.
  • To examine demographic variables in relation to children's weight.
  • To inform policy and clinical practice regarding early childhood weight management.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 2,400 children entering kindergarten in 2006 was analyzed.
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) categories were determined using CDC growth norms based on height and weight.
  • Statistical analysis compared weight status between children who attended public preschool and those who did not.

Main Results:

  • At kindergarten entry, 17% of children were overweight and 18% were obese.
  • Children attending public preschool showed an increased risk of being overweight (OR = 1.06) and obese (OR = 1.34) compared to non-attendees (P = .03).
  • No significant demographic trends were found concerning weight status.

Conclusions:

  • Public preschool attendance may be associated with an elevated risk of overweight and obesity at kindergarten entry.
  • These findings have implications for public health policy and clinical interventions.
  • Further research may explore causal mechanisms and long-term effects.

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