Early Childhood Educators' perspectives on preschool nutrition

Abstract

Background: Dietary behaviours and preferences develop in early childhood and can help shape an individual’s food preferences and behaviours in later life. The relationship between poor dietary behaviours in childhood and health is eminent, as poor nutrition in the early years can lead to increased susceptibility to disease and health complications. While a paucity of national and international literature exists that examines the dietary behaviours of preschool-aged children, it is evident that a large percentage of preschool-aged children consume nutrient-poor diets high in ‘junk food’ and do not meet recommended dietary guidelines. A variety of factors exist which affect these dietary behaviours, including the environments in which children live and other influential environments in children’s lives such as Early Childhood Education Services (ECEs). Further investigation is needed to understand the dietary behaviours of preschool-aged children and the role ECEs have in influencing such behaviours. Aim: To investigate common dietary issues of preschool-aged children seen within mainstream New Zealand ECEs, and to identify the role of ECEs in the promotion and provision of healthy eating and dietary behaviours of preschool-aged children. Design: The current study used an exploratory qualitative research design. Semi structured interviews (n=23) were conducted with ECE educators working in mainstream ECEs in high deprivation areas within three North Island regions (Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty) in New Zealand. Results and Discussion: The findings indicated the quality and quantity of food children consume was poor and included a high proportion of nutrient poor ‘junk food’. These findings also raised questions about the variety and type of foods available to children at home and the rationale for such exposure to unhealthy foods to children and the potential health consequences associated with poor nutrition. ECE educators appear to be passionate about child health and acknowledge their unique role in enhancing dietary behaviours of preschool-aged children. While ECE educators expressed difficulty in working with parents to support the healthy dietary behaviours of preschool-aged children, they acknowledged the multiple challenges families face in providing healthy food for their children and are eager to work in partnership with parents.