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.
Published: September 2011
ID #: 1051
Journal: J Am Diet Assoc
Authors: Larson N, Ward DS, Neelon SB, Story M
Age Groups: Adults and Families, Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5)
Keywords: Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Child Care/Preschool, Food service, Fruits and vegetables, Head Start, Home, Nutrition standards, Physical activity, Snacks, Sugar-sweetened beverages, Water
Focus Areas: Early Childhood, Nutrition Policy & Programs
Resource Type: Journal Article
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