September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, a time to increase understanding that childhood obesity is a complex and chronic disease. It can also be a sensitive topic for both children and families, so it is essential that we address childhood obesity with empathy and understanding. It’s not simply a matter of personal choice or parental responsibility.

Childhood Obesity is Complex

Childhood obesity involves a lot more than just diet and exercise. Like adult obesity, it’s shaped by many factors beyond a child or parent’s control. Allen Browne, MD, FACS, FAAP, ABOM, a pediatrician specializing in obesity, emphasizes:

“Obesity is a disease. It is the same as obesity in adults, but in a different patient. The child and family need to know it is not their fault. They need to be educated regarding the disease of obesity and the options to control the disease. This has to be done understanding children are not ‘small adults.’ And with empathy and understanding of the lived experiences of children with obesity and their families.”

This perspective shifts the focus from blame to support, allowing us to focus on solutions instead of stigma. Recognizing that kids are not “small adults” mean handling these conversations with extra care.

Impact on Children’s Lives

Childhood obesity affects more than just physical health — it impacts social life, self-esteem and overall well-being. Many children with obesity face weight-based discrimination and bullying, whether it’s overt or subtle and done unconsciously, which can cause lasting psychological damage. OAC Community Member Sarah Bramblette shares her experience:

“As a child with obesity, I felt like I was just like my siblings and friends and yet, I wasn’t. We played and ate together, but I was nearly twice the size of others. It didn’t make sense to me. People would accuse me of being lazy but I loved riding my bike and playing tag at recess. I just wanted to be in the same activities with my friends, so I found ways to accommodate, like having a uniform made or altered to fit.”

A Comprehensive Approach to Prevention and Treatment

Addressing childhood obesity requires a team effort that goes beyond focusing solely on weight-loss. Supportive environments at home, school and in the community are crucial. Healthcare providers must also rethink their approach, tailoring treatment to each child’s unique needs.

Pediatricians and healthcare providers also have to be a part of this shift in thinking around childhood obesity. We need understanding doctors and treatment plans that are tailored to each child’s unique needs and circumstances to increase the likelihood of success. Aaron Kelly, PhD, professor of pediatrics, highlights the importance of listening:

“I think it all starts by listening. Listening to the needs of the child and the hopes of the parents regarding their future. Then, honoring the path they want to take to improve their health.

Family support is equally vital. A loving, non-judgmental environment can significantly impact a child’s health journey.

“Our family focuses on unconditional love and worth apart from body size, and language of weight is related to staying healthy, feeling strong and promoting a healthier relationship with food and body image,” says Liz Paul, an OAC Board Member and a parent.

Support, Not Stigma

This Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, join the OAC in promoting understanding and creating supportive environments for children and families. Visit www.obesityaction.org/childhood-obesity for a collection of resources. You can also use our Action Center to urge state leaders to protect students against weight-based bullying.

Please consider donating to our Action Fund this month to support childhood obesity resources, programs and the fight against weight bias.