Education Minister focuses on preschoolers' fitness

Education Minister Trevor Mallard is worried preschoolers are doing less and getting fatter and has set out to do something about it.

He announced yesterday the formation of a group which will develop guidelines for physical activity for under-5s, reporting to him by the end of the year.

Mr Mallard said studies showed physical activity was declining and obesity was increasing in the age group.

"This is the first time that we have addressed the issue of physical activity in our under-5s," he said.

"We need to create an environment where our youngest New Zealanders have fun being physically active and set them on the path to a healthy active lifestyle throughout their life."

The group includes representatives from the early childhood education sector, the Ministries of Education and Health, Plunket, and physical fitness organisations.

- NZPA