WIC Weight Inclusive Approach

What is Weight Inclusivity?

Weight inclusivity is an approach that prioritizes health and well-being without emphasizing weight to help improve diet and exercise-related health behaviors. This approach differs from the traditional weight-centric model.

For WIC practice that means taking the focus off weight and helping families incorporate healthy behaviors.

What is a WIC Weight Inclusive Approach?

• Supports families as they grow and thrive.
• Encourages participants to achieve a healthy balance of nutrition, movement, and growth.
• Provides a framework for discussions surrounding growth.

Weight Inclusive Literature Review

• Weight Inclusive Nutrition in Pregnancy: A Literature Review and Practice Application (PDF)

Nutrition Resources

Resources to Support Weight Inclusive Care (PDF)

Topic of the Month Articles

• Weight Inclusivity & Growth (PDF)
• Growth Charts (PDF)
• Discussing Child's Weight (PDF)
• A New Look at Responsive Feeding Practices (PDF)
• Get Moving and Stay Active (PDF)
• Indoor Play Time (PDF)

Other Related Resources

• Bias Free Communication (PDF)

Trainings in the MDH Learning Center

To register or view detailed information about available on demand learning, see Register for On Demand Learning

• Prerecorded Intuitive Eating: Promoting Positive Attitudes and Behaviors Within Families*
• Prerecorded Strength-based, Body-positive Approaches to Nutrition Education*
• Prerecorded: WIC/FHV Maternal & Child Nutrition Webinars- First in a Series* (this one has the weight stigma discussion)
• Prerecorded WIC/FHV Maternal & Child Nutrition Webinars- Second in a Series*
• Prerecorded WIC/FHV Maternal & Child Nutrition Webinars- Third in a Series*
• WIC Baby Behavior Training
• WIC Toddler Behavior Training

*Available for continuing education credits.

Nutrition Education Cards

WIC Nutrition and Your Family: the WIC nutrition education cards support a weight inclusive approach.

Wichealth.org Lessons

Relevant Lessons on wichealth.org:

• Help Your Child Develop Healthy Eating Habits
• Making Mealtime a Family Time
• Happy, Healthy, Active Children
• Fun and Realistic Ways to Get More Exercise