Date
Monday
Sep

September 1-30

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

Join us in raising awareness and promoting healthy habits this National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month! Together, we can make a difference.

Yearly Date
September 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

Get ready to raise awareness and take action against childhood obesity this September, also known as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month! This dedicated month was established in 2010 by the U.S. Congress to bring attention to the growing issue of childhood obesity in America. Did you know that over 13 million children are affected by this condition? But don't worry, there are plenty of fun and creative ways to promote healthy habits and help children lead happy and active lives. So join in on the movement and make a positive impact on the well-being of our future generation!

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month Timeline

1970s
Rise in Childhood Obesity
The childhood obesity rate has tripled since the 1970s, marking a significant rise in the issue.
1997
Initiation of BMI Tracking
Tracking of childhood obesity through Body Mass Index (BMI) charts and pediatric growth charts was initiated by the CDC in 1997.
2005
Introduction of Government Programs
The U.S. government, through programs such as Let’s Move!, started to address the issue of childhood obesity by promoting physical activity and healthy eating.
2010
Establishment of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
The U.S. Congress established National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in September 2010 to raise awareness about this growing health issue.
2015
Promotion of Healthy School Lunches
Efforts to provide healthier school lunches were amplified, as research showed the positive impact of a balanced diet on childhood obesity rates.
2020
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for targeted interventions, as prolonged stay-at-home orders led to changes in physical activity and dietary patterns among children.

How to Celebrate National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

1

Host a healthy cooking competition

Gather friends, family, and community members to participate in a healthy cooking competition. Encourage them to use fresh and nutritious ingredients to make delicious meals while promoting healthy eating habits.

2

Organize a fun run/walk event

Get people moving by organizing a fun run or walk event. This can be a great way to raise awareness about childhood obesity and promote physical activity among children and their families.

3

Create a community garden

Start a community garden where children and their families can come together to learn about gardening, healthy eating, and where their food comes from. This can also be a great way to get children excited about eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

4

Host a nutrition education workshop

Partner with local health professionals to host a nutrition education workshop for parents and children. This can be a great way to teach families about the importance of balanced meals and how to make healthier food choices.

5

Start a healthy eating challenge

Challenge families to make healthier food choices for a month, or even just a week. Provide them with resources and support to help them succeed, and celebrate their achievements at the end. This can be a fun and engaging way to promote healthy eating habits within the community.

Why National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is Important

A

It raises awareness about a pressing issue

Childhood obesity is a serious health concern that affects millions of children around the world. By dedicating a whole month to raise awareness about this issue, we can educate parents, caregivers, and the general public about its causes and potential solutions.

B

It encourages healthy habits in children

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month serves as a reminder for children and their families to prioritize their health and well-being. It promotes healthy eating habits, physical activity, and overall lifestyle changes that can prevent childhood obesity and improve overall health.

C

It promotes advocacy and action

By creating awareness, National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month also encourages people to take action in their communities. This could involve advocating for healthier school meals or pushing for more opportunities for physical activity in neighborhoods. Every small effort adds up to make a big impact in fighting childhood obesity!

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Aug 31
Thursday
2024
Aug 31
Saturday
2025
Aug 31
Sunday
2026
Aug 31
Monday
2027
Aug 31
Tuesday