As much as current health trends have been aimed at curbing overeating and obesity in American children, there has also been a backlash in that more and more children, at younger ages are becoming concerned with being “fat.” The typical onset of anorexia used to be 13 to 17 but has dropped to 9 to 13. The number of children under 12 who were hospitalized with eating disorders more than doubled from 1999 and 2006, and continues to be high.

While health trends aren’t the cause of eating disorders, it’s important parents model moderation, and avoid being over-critical or talking about certain body types or foods as being good or bad. Kids require well-rounded meals, and providing them with sweets shouldn’t necessarily be treated as a reward (or having it taken away as a punishment), but as just another type of food to be enjoyed, along with vegetables, fruits and proteins.

Preparing meals with your children and having them as a family, provides a structured routine and positive association with mealtime. Allowing children to be part of the meal prep can also give them an appreciation for the food they eat and what it does for them. This also can act as a way of making sure they are not skipping meals or avoiding certain types of food.

Also modeling a positive body image can have a significant impact on your children, too much talk of diets or overly critical self-image can lead to trouble. In the same way, talking about how certain foods are helpful and energizing can reinforce a positive association with food and body image. If your child is overly concerned about their appearance, this could just be a natural stage of growing up, but being present and demonstrating a healthy standard of eating and self-esteem can go a long way toward helping your child through challenging stages in growth and change.

If you’re a parent who feels challenged by your child’s disordered eating, please call us today at [phone]. We’re here to help guide you and your family through to the other side.