The majority of U.S. children are placed in some form of non-parental care during their preschool years, in arrangements such as child-care centers and family child-care homes, preschools, and Head Start programs. These early care and education settings provide numerous opportunities to promote healthy eating at a young age, when dietary habits are forming. Compared to research regarding schools, there has been limited research to date about federal, state, and local policies and practices that affect food choices or offerings in these settings. This research aims to identify policy and environmental changes for the child-care and preschool settings that can help prevent childhood obesity.
Fast Fact
Child Care & Preschool
Research & Publications
November 2018
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Attitudes and Consumption During the First 1000 Days of Life
This study examined the relationship between parental sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) attitudes and SSB consumption during the first 1,000 days – gestation to age 2 years. The study population consisted of 394 WIC-enrolled, Hispanic/Latino families living in northern Manhattan. Parental SSB attitudes were determined through a four question survey that used … More
September 2018
Childhood Obesity: ECE Policy and Practice Special Journal Issue
Childhood Obesity published a special theme journal issue on early care and education programs (ECE) policy and practice. It unites a group of outstanding researchers focusing on the role of policies and practices within ECE programs to support healthy practices. Each article addresses one or more important influences, including public … More
July 2018
A Systematic Review of Strategies to Reduce Sugar‐Sweetened Beverage Consumption Among 0‐Year to 5‐Year Olds
Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption begins early and increases with age in the U.S., and there is robust evidence linking SSB consumption with negative health consequences. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 27 studies on strategies aimed to reduce SSB consumption among 0- to 5-year-olds. Interventions took place primarily in healthcare … More
May 2018
Participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program Is Associated with Healthier Nutrition Environments at Family Child Care Homes in Mississippi
This study describes the foods and beverages offered, nutrition practices, and nutrition policies of family child care homes in Mississippi and differences by participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). A random sample of family child care homes that enroll 3- to 5-year-olds in Mississippi were examined … More