Irish parents are being urged to make practical changes to their lifestyle habits in order to help combat Ireland’s high levels of childhood obesity. Safefood are asking families to look at the portion sizes, drinks and screen time that they’re taking in each day and are looking at ways to reduce the risk of overweight children. “Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions in Europe and Ireland is one of the countries worst affected” said Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Frances Fitzgerald. “The Growing Up in Ireland survey, 2011 which is funded by my Department found that 1 in 4 children as young as 3 years of age are overweight or obese” she continued. “I particularly welcome this new campaign as it seeks to help parents with very practical tips and ideas for actions they can take. We know from research that tackling obesity in childhood requires a family-centred approach that is part of a wide ranging multi-agency set of initiatives.” The new campaign will be spread across all types of media including TV, radio and print, with a free booklet for parents available nationwide in crèches, health centres, GP surgeries, and from public health nurses and local libraries. Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan, Director of Human Health and Nutrition at safefood said: “We have based our campaign on strong feedback from parents that they wanted a solutions-based approach. “For this phase we’re focusing on reducing portion sizes for children, replacing sugary drinks with water and being realistic about foods that ‘should be’ treat foods.” she added. To find out more about the campaign including how-to videos from health experts and practical advice and guides for parents, visit the safefood website here.