Eating Disorders in Children

Although it’s most common for eating disorders to develop during adolescence, younger children can also be affected and sadly cases seem to be rising.  The most common eating disorders in children are Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Anorexia Nervosa and Pica.

There’s no single identifiable cause for eating disorders in children although research suggests that genetic heritability may increase risk. Other factors include being diagnosed with autism, type 1 diabetes, chronic health conditions and other mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Eating disorders are particularly dangerous in young children as they can escalate quickly and stunt growth and development. They can be difficult to diagnose as children’s body weight and nutrition requirements vary as they experience growth spurts.

Children are influenced by parents and teachers, who play an important role in modelling healthy and balanced attitudes towards food, exercise and body image. Some important guidelines for parents and teachers include:

  • Try not to label foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ as this may lead to feelings of guilt and shame when ‘bad’ foods are eaten
  • Avoid using food as bribes, punishment or rewards
  • Avoid promoting unrealistic or perfectionist ideals in terms of your child’s behaviour, grades and achievements, and instead encourage self-acceptance
  • Encourage children to celebrate diversity, and not place too much value on physical appearance as a measure of value
  • Accept that children are likely to have different eating habits from adults — they may require food more frequently during the day or go through periods of liking or disliking particular foods
  • Children learn by example — don’t skip meals, participate in fad diets or enforce diets upon children
  • Encourage your child to express their feelings freely and encourage open communication in the home
  • Allow your child to eat when they’re hungry and stop when they’re full — don’t force them to eat everything on their plate
  • Model acceptance of different body shapes and sizes, including your own
  • Don’t criticise or tease children about their appearance, or make comparisons to another child’s appearance
  • Encourage sport and regular exercise to foster their body confidence. Model a healthy lifestyle yourself by participating in regular exercise for enjoyment and fitness
  • Reassure your child that it’s normal and healthy to gain weight at the onset of puberty and throughout adolescence

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