National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is observed every September to raise awareness about childhood obesity, prevention, treatment, and family support. The month encourages parents, schools, healthcare professionals, and communities to help children build healthy habits without shame or blame. Childhood obesity can affect physical health, emotional well-being, social life, and long-term quality of life, so early support and respectful care are important.

History of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month was first proclaimed in the United States in 2010. The observance was created to draw national attention to childhood obesity and to encourage families, schools, healthcare providers, community groups, and policymakers to take practical steps that support children’s health.

Childhood obesity is a complex public health issue. It can be influenced by nutrition, physical activity, sleep, genetics, family history, stress, medications, neighborhood conditions, access to safe places to play, and access to affordable healthy food. Because many factors are involved, prevention and treatment work best when families receive support rather than judgment.

Children with obesity may have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, joint problems, liver disease, and mental health challenges. National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month encourages education, earlier conversations with healthcare professionals, and healthier environments for children at home, at school, and in the community.

Important Facts About National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

• According to NCHS/CDC data for August 2021 through August 2023, 21.1% of U.S. children and adolescents ages 2-19 had obesity.
• The same data found that 7.0% of children and adolescents had severe obesity.
• Childhood obesity often continues into adulthood, which can increase the risk of chronic health conditions later in life.
• Healthy routines can include balanced meals, regular physical activity, enough sleep, less sugary drinks, and limits on long periods of screen time.
• Weight-related conversations with children should be kind, private, and focused on health, strength, energy, and well-being rather than appearance.
• Families should speak with a qualified healthcare professional if they are concerned about a child’s growth, weight, eating habits, activity level, or emotional health.

Ways to Observe National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month can be observed by learning about the causes and health effects of childhood obesity and by sharing reliable, non-stigmatizing information. Parents and caregivers can support children by offering regular meals, encouraging active play, making water available, helping children get enough sleep, and creating routines that are realistic for the whole family.

Schools and community groups can take part by promoting physical activity, improving access to nutritious foods, organizing educational events, and creating safe spaces for children to move and play. People can also support research, donate to health-focused organizations, or encourage policies that make healthy choices easier for families.

When Is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in 2026?

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is observed annually throughout September, beginning on September 1.

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