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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.

Tuesday

1–30

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

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!

TIMELINE

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month Timeline

Rise in Childhood Obesity

The childhood obesity rate has tripled since the 1970s, marking a significant rise in the issue.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

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.

ORGANIZE

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.

CREATE

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.

HOST

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.

START

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 THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is Important

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!

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.

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.

Related holidays

National Obesity Awareness Week

During National Obesity Awareness Week, learn about health challenges, better nutrition and ways to foster an active lifestyle for a healthier you!

Healthy Kids Day

Join us for Healthy Kids Day and inspire your children to live actively, eat well, and lead a vibrant, healthy life!

Every Kid Healthy Week

Get in gear for Every Kid Healthy Week! It's all about nutritious food, fitness activities, and happy, healthy lifestyles for our little ones!

World Obesity Day

An awareness observance on March 4 raising awareness of the global obesity crisis and promoting practical solutions for prevention, understanding, and treatment of obesity.

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