In April 2012, South Carolina enacted 13 nutrition standards for child-care centers serving lower-income children throughout the state. This study evaluated consistency with the standards before and after the policy took effect using North Carolina, a state not making policy changes, as the comparison. Researchers recorded foods and beverages served to children and documented the food environments of centers in both states at baseline and follow-up. Compared with North Carolina, centers in South Carolina were more likely to be consistent with the standard prohibiting the use of food as a reward or punishment. Two centers in South Carolina met all 13 standards at follow-up compared with none in North Carolina. The new standards modestly improved nutrition practices in South Carolina child-care centers, but additional support is needed to bring all centers into compliance with the current policies.
Comparative Evaluation of a South Carolina Policy to Improve Nutrition in Child Care
Published: January 2016
ID #: 69551
Journal: J Acad Nutr Diet
Authors: Benajmin Neelon SE, Mayhew M, O’Neill JR, Neelon B, Li F, Pate RR
Focus Area: Early Childhood
Age Group: Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5)
Resource Type: Journal Article
Race/Ethnicity: Multi-racial/ethnic
Keywords: Fruits and vegetables, Nutrition standards, Snacks, Sugar-sweetened beverages
States: North Carolina, South Carolina
Related Research
November 2011
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Mandatory State Nutrition Standards for Child-Care Programs
The preschool period is a critical time for growth and development, and healthy eating at this age can help prevent later obesity. Despite the large number of children attending center-based child care, current state policies to combat obesity in child care are inadequate. South Carolina is on the verge of … More
September 2019
Technical Scientific Report. Healthy Beverage Consumption in Early Childhood: Recommendations from Key National Health and Nutrition Organizations
Research shows that what children drink – from birth through age 5 – can have a big impact on their health, as beverages make a significant contribution to dietary intake during this period. However, with so many choices available in the marketplace, it can be confusing for parents and caregivers … More
September 2019
Consensus Statement. Healthy Beverage Consumption in Early Childhood: Recommendations from Key National Health and Nutrition Organizations
Research shows that what children drink – from birth through age 5 – can have a big impact on their health, as beverages make a significant contribution to dietary intake during this period. However, with so many choices available in the marketplace, it can be confusing for parents and caregivers … More