The U-M C. S. Mott Children's Hospital Poll found that of parents who have children in elementary school, it's the overweight or obese parents that are more likely to think that the physical activity offered during the school day is inadequate.

One in six children in the United States is affected by childhood obesity, and a large part of this epidemic can be traced back to a lack of physical activity. However, budget cuts coupled with academic pressures can lead schools to cut back on time spent in gym class and recess.

Sarah Clark, Associate Director of the Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit said, "Parents are virtually unanimous that it's very important for elementary school kids to get physical activity during every school day. However, one-third of parents think that their kids do not get enough physical activity at school".

Clark says that parents with their own weight issues are more critical and expect the schools to actively participate in helping solve the weight issues their children have. She says that school officials should listen to these parents and place physical activity for elementary school children near the top of their priority list.

Some parents and communities are even taking it upon themselves to conduct fundraisers in an effort to improve the playground equipment for their children so they'll be more encouraged to get out and play.