It is never too early to develop good eating habits and, by the same token, it is never too early to develop bad ones, either. Like most habits, children learn by watching and interacting with others, but it turns out that when it comes to food, these "others" might not be the best influence. In a study published online in The Archives of Disease in Childhood, researchers from the University of Michigan relate the results of a study they conducted that looked at a possible cause of childhood overeating. The researchers found, after looking at preschoolers in groups of 3-9, that the kids ate up to 30% more in the larger groups than the smaller ones. Not only did they eat more, but they also ate much faster. This frenzied eating is also exhibited by many different kinds of animals when placed in groups (albeit not with graham crackers to tempt them), so it is likely that it is some manifestation of the survival instinct. The problem is that it can be conditioned into an unconscious impulse if this is the environment that the kids are in all the time.

Taking school lunch reform what might be a bit too far, preschool teachers in New South Wales, Australia have begun to implement lunchbox inspections. The teachers have banned foods including chocolates, candies, cakes and fruit rollups, taking them away from the children and sending the items home uneaten if they are found. The ban on foods deemed to be unhealthy extends to birthday cakes as well, where a plain, homemade vanilla cupcake - no icing or ice cream - is the most appropriate treat.

One teacher said "It is just as much about educating parents as it is the children." Even though the teachers say that this is a good way to encourage healthy eating habits, it is sending a message to the parents to prepare the lunches, not the children who receive them.

It is noted by some experts that the teachers are not following an official direction to inspect lunches, but that they have taken it upon themselves. How long it will continue before parents protest - or conform - remains to be seen.