Use these guidelines to help you deal with a child you suspect may have an eating disorder:

• Do not deny your child parental guidance, but remember that he/she may have many adult abilities that need to develop.
• Speak to your child with compassion and concern. Be as descriptive as possible.
• Avoid focusing on how your child looks. Comments such as, "You're looking far too thin" or "You're looking great" encourages body image obsessions.
• Explain what you suspect by describing the problematic behaviors. State your observations.
  
  Examples:

  "I'm noticing you are skipping meals."
  "You're eating less at each meal."
  "You're exercising more and it's obvious that you're losing a large amount of weight."
  "I'm concerned for your health."