Introduction. The aim of the paper is to discuss the specificity of family factors in building eating habits of children and adolescents. Due to alarming statistics on overweight and obesity, the analysis of environmental factors involved in the etiopathogenesis of this phenomenon in children is needed because of all its consequences not only for physical health, but also for psycho--social health. Aim. To present the results of research on the food environment of families with children aged 1–12. On this basis, as part of a broader research, an analysis of associations between selected elements of the family food environment and eating behaviors of children and their parents. Method. The research analysis of the results is based on general data about family and the author’s original questionnaire Family Food Environment. Results. Mothers spent significantly more time than fathers preparing meals. Most parents have lunch, dinner and afternoon tea with their children. They have breakfast and packed lunch outside home. The level of stability of meals related to both meal conditions and meal planning decreases in the group of older children (over 6 years). The study indicated a weak but statistically significant correlation between selected areas investigated by the Family Food Environment Questionnaire.

Key words: family food environment, eating habits, prevention.