The Healthy Children, Healthy Weights toolbox (HCHWTB) project aims to address childhood obesity in Columbus through a coordinated, evidence-based approach. HCHWTBs are designed to develop weight management competence in our youngest children as they develop and in the adults who care for them.Toolbox materials address issues that, according to research, are key to addressing childhood weight management, including growth and development, healthy eating behaviors, nutrition, development of positive body image, and developmentally appropriate physical activity. Tools include information sheets, activity plans, resource lists, placemats, games, posters and, for clinicians, a set of masters for patient education materials.

The goal of the HCHW toolbox is to provide focused messages related to promoting a healthy weight in young children, along with practical strategies that may be used in multiple settings.

A total of 411 people have participated in the project to this point. Evaluation of lifestyle changes is underway.