How do I avoid passing my own body insecurities on to my toddler?

Children as young as 2 absorb parental attitudes toward bodies and food. Avoid negative body talk in front of your child — no 'I look fat,' 'I shouldn't eat that,' or criticizing others' bodies. Instead, model body appreciation: 'My legs carried us on a great walk today!' Celebrate what bodies can do, not how they look. If you struggle with your own body image, consider this a powerful motivator to work on it — for your child's sake and yours. Discuss healthy family attitudes around food and bodies with your pediatrician.