Obesity rates among children have risen dramatically over the last several decades. According to the World Obesity Atlas 2026, the obesity rate among school-aged children increased from 4% in 1975 to nearly 20% in 2022. Many children are even overweight before they’re old enough to enter school, as the American Society for the Positive Care of Children reports that approximately one in 10 four- and five-year-olds is overweight.
 

Being overweight or obese in childhood poses a significant risk. The Mayo Clinic notes that excess weight in childhood often puts children on a path to diabetes and high blood pressure. The effects can also be more immediate, as childhood obesity can contribute to poor self-esteem and depression.

Parents concerned about their children’s short- and long-term health can use various strategies to help their kids lose extra weight.
 

Recognize the potential causes of childhood obesity.

The Mayo Clinic notes that childhood obesity is a complex condition caused by a range of factors, some of which are beyond kids’ and parents’ control. Some cases of childhood obesity may be linked to genetic and hormonal factors, while others may be a byproduct of socioeconomic variables, including lack of access to nutritious foods, which are not always readily available in low-income neighborhoods. Lifestyle factors, including eating too frequently and consuming unhealthy foods during meals and between meals, also play a role. A lack of regular physical activity also increases the likelihood that kids will gain extra weight.

Encourage healthy eating habits.

The ASPCC notes that parents can help prevent childhood obesity by ensuring kids have access to healthy meals and snacks. The Mayo Clinic urges parents to limit kids’ access to fast food, baked goods, and vending machine snacks, all of which tend to be high in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Parents should also limit sugary drinks, such as sodas, fruit juices, and sports drinks.

Set a good example.

Children, particularly school-aged children, tend to mimic their parents’ behavior. Parents can use this to their advantage by combating overweight and obesity in their children, choosing healthy snacks between meals, and serving reasonable portions of nutritious foods at mealtime. Parents can also forgo snacking on potato chips and other processed snacks in favor of fruits and vegetables.

Encourage physical activity.

The Mayo Clinic urges parents to help their children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Spending hours each day watching television, playing video games, or scrolling through social media increases the likelihood that kids will gain extra weight. The Mayo Clinic adds that ads during television shows and on social media and other internet platforms may promote unhealthy foods. Finding time each day for kids to play outdoors can foster a love of physical activity that can help kids lose weight and maintain a healthy weight once they have shed extra pounds.
 

Obesity rates among children are rising, but parents can do a lot to help kids shed extra weight and keep it off over the long haul.