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: Child Care/Preschool, Fruits and vegetables, Nutrition standards, Snacks, Sugar-sweetened beverages
States: North Carolina, South Carolina
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