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. Registration for these course are intended for MN WIC staff ONLY.

• 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