We know that parents are constantly influencing their children's relationship with food and activity as well as self-esteem. Researchers usually focus on how unhealthy lifestyles and behaviors, such as smoking, alcoholism, domestic violence and obesity, are handed down through the generations. The more positive practices have been largely overlooked, but we are now beginning to examine the process of how healthy attitudes and behaviors affect future generations. Good lifestyle habits and a positive self-image can also be handed down from mother to daughter.

We know that if mothers adopt positive parenting attitudes and behaviors with regard to health, their children are likely to be happier with their bodies and have healthy eating and exercise habits.

Body image is a prime example. Many moms tell their daughters they are beautiful, then turn around and criticize their own bodies. This practice negates the compliments and encourages their daughters to be critical of themselves.

As a mother myself, one of my goals is to provide my daughter with an environment full of healthy attitudes and behaviors. We don't focus on looks, weight or diets. Instead, I encourage my children to do things that make them feel good and give them energy.

Even if I don't always want to reach for a healthy snack or exercise before watching television, I do. I'm pretty sure that if I convey the attitudes and habits I want my daughter to have, not only will I help her, I will be helping myself.

Remember that our children do what we do, not what we say, so think twice before you criticize your shape, size or hips. Passing down a legacy of good health is the best motivation of all.