Overweight and obesity gained through childhood may have a negative influence in the quality of life in adulthood. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to aim for a healthy weight in children. Small children are dependent on their parents, therefore it is important that the parents receive good information on health promotion measures that lead to healthy weight development. The task for children's healthcare is to promote health and prevent illness and aim for involvement and empowerment of the parents. Through knowledge about how parents may influence the weight and obesity of their children, the nurses can get better tools to support the parents. The purpose of the literature study was to examine how the parents may influence the development of overweight and obesity amongst preschool children. Research was conducted in three different databases focusing on nursing. In the result the following categories were found: Parents' role, Cultural background and socioeconomic, Eating habits, Physical activity. It is important to pay attention to the risk of obesity in early childhood to promote health measures such as dialogues and promote effective parenting especially in vulnerable areas. More research and knowledge is needed concerning preschoolers as today's knowledge situation is insufficient regarding this age group.