Attitudes to food, size and weight are learned at home.

Be a healthy role model
A mother who is constantly dieting is setting a bad example, a father who makes jokes about being plump is sending a message that thinner is better. Avoid making comments on your own body size or the shape of others.

Maintain a sensible attitude towards eating. What you eat at home is important. Encourage your child to eat a healthy balanced diet (salads and greens as well as meat and fish) but don't talk about 'good food and bad food'. All food is good in the right quantities.

'Food is just food'
Avoid 'comfort eating' or offering your child food as a treat if she's miserable. If your child doesn't always finish the food on her plate, don't insist that she finishes it. Don't make pudding dependent on a clean plate! Never say 'just one more mouthful' - allow her to be in touch with her natural appetite. Above all, make eating a positive experience.

Make mealtimes together fun and relaxed
Family meals should be something to look forward to - an opportunity to catch up at the end of the day. Don't discuss problems or row at the dinner table; nothing is guaranteed to spoil the appetite faster. Let your child associate food with pleasant socialising, rather than familial tension.