With such startling statistics there is little time to wait. Children need access to better food, to have more nutritional information and need to be more active - all of which can be delivered, at least in part, through their after-school club.
A recent KCN survey Food For Thought showed that the majority of after-school clubs provide food for children. Almost 70 per cent of breakfast clubs provide hot meals, while 54 per cent of after-school clubs provide hot meals in the afternoon.
What is more, nine out of ten clubs consult with the children on food and activities and the more regularly clubs consult the more options are offered to the children. It is clear that where children are consulted they enjoy a greater range of healthy options to try. Cookery is not only an enjoyable activity but a means of learning about different foods. Cookery activities are provided by 87 per cent of clubs.
The more sedentary lifestyle that children lead today has a major role to play in rising obesity. With physical activity in schools decreasing we have to ensure that children get access to opportunities for active play - sports and much more. Again, out-of-school clubs have a real role to play.
In the survey, at least half the boys played football in their out-of-school club and one third of children played some other sport as well as running about outside.
What stands out from the survey is that children are aware of the need to eat healthily and take exercise. Allowing them the opportunities to do this at their out-of-school club could be the key to ensuring their healthy lifestyles.