uations may also help children feel more comfortable. Rather than jumping to conclu- sions, parents should focus on observable behaviors. The key is not to overwhelm the child with adult anxieties. “Our adult brain jumps three steps ahead when we get those worried thoughts,” she explains. Instead, ask simple questions and reflect on what you notice, giving the child room to share their thoughts without feeling judged. This approach fosters an open dialogue where children can express their feelings without fear of punishment or misunderstanding. The Role of Professional Support If parents are concerned about their child’s relationship with food, Dr. Hernandez advis- es starting with a pediatrician. A physical checkup can rule out or identify any growth or health concerns, and from there, a coun- selor specializing in eating disorders can pro- vide support for mental health. Eating disor- ders often require a team-based approach, involving not just doctors and counselors but possibly occupational therapists, dietitians, or nutritionists. For children with sensory issues around food textures or smells, an occupational therapist might offer specific food therapy. A nutritionist can help reframe the purpose of
eating, teaching children how food supports their bodies. “It’s definitely a team effort,” Dr. Hernandez says. The Mind-Body Connection Mindfulness plays a significant role in help- ing children build a healthier relationship with food, and Dr. Hernandez sees it as a valuable tool in eating disorder treatment. “Mindfulness is paying attention in the pres- ent moment,” she explains. It can help chil- dren recognize patterns, like whether they’re eating because they’re hungry or because they’re bored, anxious, or overwhelmed. Mindfulness practices, like mindful eating or breathing exercises, can also support the mental health tools children learn in therapy. For example, by reflecting on how certain foods make them feel physically and emo- tionally, children can gain insights into their eating habits. Dr. Hernandez also encourages parents to model these mindful behaviors, such as narrating their own experiences with trying new foods. Children struggling with body image or eating habits often carry shame or embar- rassment. To address this, Dr. Hernandez also recommends cognitive behavioral ther- apy (CBT), which helps children understand the connection between their thoughts, feel- ings, and behaviors. CBT teaches children
to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. Another way to foster a healthy relation- ship with food is to make mealtimes positive family experiences. Dr. Hernandez suggests involving children in meal preparation, putting on music, and creating space for meaningful conversation at the table. “Use mealtime to connect—talk about the best parts of your day or the not-so-good parts,” she advises. Navigating your child’s eating disorder can be challenging, but early recogni- tion and intervention are crucial for their recovery and long-term health. As parents, understanding the signs and symptoms of eating disorders and approaching conversa- tions with care can make all the difference. Remember, you don’t have to face this jour- ney alone–seeking professional help from pediatricians, counselors, or nutritionists can provide the support your child needs to develop a healthier relationship with food. If you notice changes in your child’s eating habits or body image, reach out to a health- care professional. Early action can pave the way to healing and a brighter future for your child.
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