Entrez Childhood obesity is too often invisible to parents, especially those of preschoolers. Is it the stigma? Desensitization? Or just naivete?

In this large U.K. study, of the 145 overweight or obese children, only 9 (6%) were described as ‘overweight’ or ‘very overweight’ by their parents.

But many parents said that they were concerned about future obesity–40, 63 and 76 percent of parents of normal weight, overweight and obese children, respectively.

So, ask about future overweight, even if you think your kid is just “big for her/his age.” And if you have trouble yourself losing weight, see a weight loss specialist.