There has so far only been little research attention given to how families actively engage in promoting their health in everyday life. In this paper a theoretical framework is proposed for studies of the 'health-promoting family' with particular focus on children's health and well-being. This paper sets out a conceptual model for understanding how the family can play a part in promoting both the health of children and children's capacities as health-promoting actors. It draws on contemporary social science approaches to health, the family and children, suggesting a new emphasis on the family's ecocultural pathway, family practices and the child as a health-promoting actor.