By Dr. Ari Brown, M.D., FAAP for the American Academy of Pediatrics (BIO)

Back-to-school time is a great time to reinforce healthy habits with your family. Here are a few simple things you can do to have a positive influence on your children's health:

• Lead by Example. Become a good role model for your kids by choosing nutritious foods for yourself. Opt for foods like lowfat or fat-free milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and fish.
• Start the day off right! Breakfast really is the most important meal. People who eat several small meals throughout the day, instead of a couple big meals have a lower risk of being overweight. Starting the day with whole grain cereal and milk, or fresh fruit and yogurt, promotes healthy eating habits.
• Share liquid logic. Teach your kids how to choose nutritious beverages like milk and water. Drinking the recommended three servings of lowfat or fat-free milk instead of sugary soft drinks is not only good for children's bones; some research suggests it may also help maintain a healthy weight.
• A lesson on labels. Teach your kids to read the nutrition facts when choosing foods and beverages. Help them understand portion sizes, so they don't grow up with "portion distortion."
• Ring the dinner bell. Whenever possible, sit down and eat together at home as a family. Research shows that families who eat dinner together regularly are also more likely to eat healthier foods.
• Get moving! Schedule a family walk after dinner. If you can't go every night, try walking together at least several evenings a week. Research shows that kids may be more active if their parents are physically active-or better yet, if they exercise together as a family.