Family Eating Behavior and Child Eating Patterns Differences Between Children With and Without Siblings

To examine the differences in family eating behaviors and child eating patterns in children with siblings (nonsingletons) and without siblings (singletons).

Cross-sectional analysis of mother-child dyads of 5-7-year-old children, (nonsingletons with a 2-to-4-year-old sibling) was conducted. Anthropometrics were measured. Mothers completed questionnaires and a child dietary log. Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI) score was calculated. Linear regression models adjusting for child age, child sex, maternal body mass index, and hours-away-from-home were conducted, with a revised P < .021.

Sixty-eight mother-child dyads (27 singletons, 41 nonsingletons) participated. Singletons exhibited less healthy family eating behaviors (β = -4.98, SE = 1.88, P = .003), and lower total HEI scores than did nonsingletons (average: β = -8.91, SE =2.40, P = .001). On average, singletons had lower scores in 3 HEI components compared with nonsingletons (P < .021 for all).

In this sample, singleton children exhibited less healthy eating behaviors. Additional investigation into parent-level differences is warranted.