Healthy Eating Habits In Early Childhood

Some people might think that establishing healthy eating habits during the early childhood years is too soon because children are not aware of what is categorized as healthy and unhealthy food. However, eating healthy helps children focus, feel energized, and decrease their chances of acquiring fatal diseases, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, and/or obesity (Mazzeo, Arens, Germeroth, & Hein 2012). Children will eventually grow older and some assume that they will learn how to eat healthy on their own. Some children, due to unhealthy eating habits, become obese. It is common for young children to avoid vegetables, during what may be known as “the rejection of veggies” stage. Some might also assume that children will “outgrow” the rejection of veggies stage, or that the child might lose all that extra weight as he/she gets older. The truth is that children need positive role models who promote and teach them healthy eating behavior. They will not learn on their own; they need guidance. Both educators and parents can promote healthy eating behaviors to children. Educators influence children in various ways, which leads me to explore in greater depth, “How can educators promote healthy eating habits in the pre-kindergarten classroom?”
The paper will also focus on the …show more content…
I believe if teachers understand the lifelong benefits nutrition education has on young children they will be more likely to teach it in a fun manner. Young children look up to the important adults in their life, therefore, adults should teach nutrition with enthusiasm and by being a nutrition role model. My research aims to present a clear picture of teaching nutrition education in the classroom without neglecting other academic subjects. Understanding the significant role that nutrition education plays in children’s life will have long lasting results for all