Recently I was disappointed to come across an advertisement for an exercise bike designed for children. Children should be getting exercise from sports or playing throughout the day and the message that toys like these are sending may cause insecurities in children. Dr. Karytko joins me to discuss the harmful effects that this toy and others may have on a child’s self-esteem and body image. These toys may not be the individual reason for an eating disorder, but the way they are perceived may cause a long-lasting impact on your child’s mental health. Dr. Karytko is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Wellesley, Massachusetts providing care for a wide range of patients with expertise in the treatment of trauma, eating disorders, substance use disorders and co-occurring issues. Dr. K has been active in the eating disorder professional community in the Boston area and loves to support those dealing with major life struggles. In this episode we discuss: Our view on the Little Tykes stationary bike and how it can affect the way that children view exercise Toys that are targeted towards children that may negatively impact body image How America’s diet culture is affecting our children Possible causes of an increase in younger children having negative body image  Ways parents can help their children who may have an eating disorder Resources: National Eating Disorder Association Psychology Today Zencare.co Multi-service Eating Disorders Association Maintenance Phase podcast @Foodsciencebabe The Little Tykes Stationary Bike Connect with Dr. Karytko: Website LinkedIn SHOW NOTES: lynzyandco.com Connect with me on Instagram @motherhoodmeetsmedicine. For full show notes, head to lynzyandco.com/motherhood-meets-medicine-the-podcast/ Join the Motherhood Meets Medicine community at patreon.com/motherhoodmeetsmedicine. Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The information on this podcast is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.