Today, over ten million children aged 2-19 are considered to be obese, that is approximately more than 15% of the United States (CDC). Society itself has changed since the 20th century, with this change, more and more children have become obese. Over the past 30 years, the rate of childhood obesity has doubled (CDC). If you were to walk through a nearby playground 30 years ago you might see many more children running around, if you were to look at that same playground today you would most likely find fewer children there. Even amongst those children there you would find many of them playing on a smartphone or tablet. Now childhood obesity has captured the attention of many healthcare professionals, parents, and health policy experts. Childhood obesity in America is a growing disease that has become an epidemic that has lasting psychological effects, because of companies advertising unhealthy foods, lack of physical activities, and poor food choices from parents and schools; which has become a major health issue in many young children’s’ lives today Childhood obesity has always been an issue. The key word is issue, today it is an epidemic. Many years ago if a child was obese, they were just obese. There wasn’t very much awareness as there is now. “Obesity is a big issue, too complex to look at through a simple map, there are many variables that have to be looked at to find the underlying cause” (Wiley). Many individuals think their child is overweight instead of obese. What is the difference between overweight and obese? This is a question that has been asked throughout generations and will continue to be asked. The one thing these two have in common is something called “energy imbalance” (NCCOR). The plain definition is taking in more calories than burning off. Overweight is defined as “having excess weight for a particular height from fat, muscle, bone, water, or a combination of these factors. Obesity is defined as having excess body fat (CDC). As previously stated, at least 15% of Americas children are considered obese; this major problem that can’t simply be solved overnight. Something as big as childhood obesity will take time. The life-threatening consequences of this epidemic create a compelling and critical call for action that cannot be ignored. The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) conducted a study in Arizona to find out the main causes for premature deaths. They found a glucose intolerance and hypertension at a young age, may be the leading cause to an early death. While cholesterol is not as big of an issue, the evidence found underscores the importance of preventing obesity starting in the early years of life. According to the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity, this disease is estimated to cause 112,000 deaths per year in the United States, and one third of all children born in the year 2000 are expected to develop diabetes during their lifetime. The current generation may even be on track to have a shorter lifespan than their parents. Society as a whole should pay more attention to alarming statistics as shown; not just society, but parents and children as well. Awareness should start with parents; the problem is not enough people are educating them. Obesity is always a touchy subject; not very many people can tell you your child is obese. As a start, schools should sponsor a health and wellness night. This should be done once per semester or once per quarter to accommodate new students. Hartman Elementary in Omaha, Nebraska sponsors a health and wellness night for parents and children. “Attendees will receive a “Passport to Fitness” at the door, which they will use to acquire stamps at various stations in order to qualify for free prizes. Nearly 40 organizations will be on hand with information on physical wellness, nutrition, financial health, relaxation techniques, skin care, safety tips, dental health and more. Adults and children can also enjoy a wide range of games and activities including bowling, scooters, volleyball, basketball, parachute games, an obstacle course, Wii games, and yoga for kids.” While this isn’t a permanent solution or a super effective way, it is a good place to start. If one school sponsors a health and wellness night, other schools may eventually join in. The