The center strongly encourages individual parents and families to advocate for improved school and community environments and to make healthy choices in their own households. We recognize, though, that environmental changes in the places where families live must come first. Families wishing to adopt lifestyles that include consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and regular physical activity will be thwarted in their efforts if their communities lack places to purchase healthy food and if parks, streets and playgrounds are unsafe or nonexistent. Thus, the center focuses its efforts on policy and environmental solutions because these must precede opportunities for families to make needed changes. Because the center focuses its efforts on policy and environmental solutions, this Web site does not provide information or tips for individuals and families seeking to improve their diets or become physically active. If you are concerned about your child’s weight, please talk to your child’s health care provider.

To learn more about what individuals and families can do, click here.