Overweight and Obesity in Preschoolers

The proposed randomized controlled trial has five specific aims: Specific Aim 1: To determine the effectiveness of a 10 week parent-only group support program focusing on evidence-based parenting practices followed by a mobile health (mHealth) component for 6-months (n = 150) compared to standard care (n = 150) for overweight and obesity in pre-school children (change in BMI z-scores after 9 months primary outcome). Specific Aim 2: To determine if the intervention can improve body composition (waist circumference), child eating behaviour, physical activity, and parental feeding practices in comparison to the control group. Specific Aim 3: To assess reversibility of the molecular signatures of obesity following the intervention through epigenetic markers in white blood cells (methylation) and analyzing the role of the gut hormones. Specific Aim 4: To assess and validate child food intake with metabolic markers in urine. Specific Aim 5: To evaluate the feasibility of recruitment (facilitators and barriers), attrition and acceptability, as well as patient and caregiver satisfaction to the intervention.