The National Eating Disorders Association states that 80% of 10-year-old children are afraid of getting fat. And other experts say that parents play a pivotal role in helping their children develop a positive body image and healthy eating habits. Aaron Krasner, director of the adolescent transitional living program at Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, Conn., said, "'We make the weather in our homes,' a wiser-than-me parent once told me. I think it's true -- especially when it comes to eating behaviors and body image. As parents, we must be mindful of our own relationship with our bodies, how we eat, and the potential impact on our kids."

While it's important to encourage our children to have healthy habits, it's equally as important to help them build a realistic and healthy view of their bodies. Kids with positive body image recognize the following:

• Healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes
• Body size and weight do not predict happiness, success, or health
• People are more than numbers on a scale
• Images in the media are completely unrealistic

So what can you do to help your child?

• Don't criticize yourself or others about weight or shape. Ever.
• Don't make negative comments about food, such as "I can't eat potatoes because they're carbs." Instead, teach children the importance of good nutrition and exercise without mentioning weight.
• Praise children on their talents and achievements--not their appearance.
• Explain to youngsters that weight gain and changes in body shape are a natural part of the growing process.
• Teach your children to be critical thinkers that question what they see in the media. Remind them that only 5 percent of American women have the so-called "ideal" body type portrayed in ads.
• Promote activities that make your child feel good about themselves and that don’t focus on their appearance.
• Keep the communication lines with your child open.

While your child will be influenced by peers and the media, you as the parent have the opportunity to help your child build a strong foundation of self-esteem and confidence.