Matters of Size: Obesity as a Diversity Issue in the Field of Early Childhood

Abstract

This article is a synthesis of research on the consequences of obesity for all stakeholders in the field of early childhood: young children, family members of young children, and teachers of young children. The article examines the effects of obesity on the wellness, self-esteem, peer relationships, and social status of children/families and early childhood teachers. The argument is set forth that discrimination on the basis of body size is often thinly veiled classism and racism and the paper calls for an acceptance of size diversity in the early childhood field. Practical recommendations for working with children who are seriously overweight and with families conclude the article.