Published: September 2011

ID #: 1051

Journal: J Am Diet Assoc

Authors: Larson N, Ward DS, Neelon SB, Story M

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This article summarizes the scientific literature on state regulations, practices and policies, and interventions for promoting healthy eating and physical activity, and for preventing obesity in preschool-aged children attending child care. Findings of the review indicate that most states lack strong healthy eating and physical activity regulations for child-care settings. Assessments of child-care settings suggest opportunities for improving the nutritional quality of food provided to children, the time children are engaged in physical activity, and caregivers’ promotion of children’s health behaviors and use of health education resources.

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