You’re days away from Valentine's Day, but already you are bracing yourself for the perennial parent-child Candy Battle. After all, just as surely as heart-shaped decorations are popping up in stores, loads of chocolates and candies will soon be showing up in your kid's school bags.

It can be unsettling to watch your child push away a plate of food or say they’re “not hungry” when you think they should be eating. As a parent or caregiver, your mind may race: Are they getting enough? Could something be wrong?

Envision a lively 11-year-old, healthy and full of joy. So many friends, so engaged in the classroom, a naturally skilled athlete. She enjoys a well-rounded diet, and, like most kids her age, enjoys sweets. She’s stronger, and fuller than many of her peers, a result of earlier puberty, and an asset for sports.