Beginning this fall the [Flagstaff school] district will measure and weigh elementary-school children and send letters to parents whose children are overweight or heading that way....we'd like to see the Flagstaff schools' program expanded statewide. Obesity is a public-health problem of monumental proportions (and no, the pun isn't intended) in this state and nationwide.
Since I haven’t read the Flagstaff school’s official policy, perhaps I shouldn’t pick it apart…But I will anyway.
In an era of eating disorders and body image issues (very eloquently described by Marya Hornbacher), it seems very dangerous and petty to pick out students who appear to be “on the way” to becoming overweight. How would a school nurse possibly know enough about a student’s personal life to be able to distinguish between a little lingering baby fat and a sedentary lifestyle? They would have to go on appearance and/or personal judgment alone - which is dangerous, especially considering that there are many healthy kids out there who might technically be overweight.
And can you imagine for one moment how horrifying and humiliating it would be to be picked out as one of the fat kids? Most elementary-age children think they're awesome; it doesn't occur to them that they're not until they go through those hellish middle school years. They'll have plenty of time to feel shitty about themselves then. And another thing: Parents with overweight kids usually know they're overweight. They either handle the situation at home or they don't. Getting a letter from the school wouldn't change a dang thing.
And can you imagine for one moment how horrifying and humiliating it would be to be picked out as one of the fat kids? Most elementary-age children think they're awesome; it doesn't occur to them that they're not until they go through those hellish middle school years. They'll have plenty of time to feel shitty about themselves then. And another thing: Parents with overweight kids usually know they're overweight. They either handle the situation at home or they don't. Getting a letter from the school wouldn't change a dang thing.
I tend to be a social libertarian, so that might tell you how I feel about the political/social ramifications of all this, nevermind the poor babies' self-esteems. This Arizona situation lends itself very well to a discussion about Michelle Obama's anti-obesity campaign, which I will save for another day.
Obesity is an epidemic, there’s no doubt about it – and it does always start with being slightly overweight. So I think schools do owe it to students to provide nutritious meal options, promote healthy activities, and educate young people about good lifestyle habits. That doesn’t include sending out official “Hey, your kid’s getting fat!” or “It’s come to our attention your child is a lard-ass!” letters.
Bad idea, if you ask me. As always, I could be wrong.
