Date

5-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Human Development & Family Science

Major

Human Development and Family Science

First Advisor

Christi Cervantes

Abstract

This capstone project aimed to highlight the importance of nutrition education in early childhood. I chose this topic because studies have shown a steady increase over the years in children’s diet-related illnesses (Baker & Bjerregaard, 2023). Many factors have contributed to this increase such as media and marketing. Companies use their marketing strategies to target the interests of children and persuade them to desire their unhealthy products (Taillie et al., 2019). This strategy leads to children purchasing and consuming processed foods, high in sugar and empty calories. Another important component in childhood nutrition is socioeconomic status. People from lower socioeconomic status can struggle with the feeling of nutritious foods being out of reach. This creates a need for education on healthy and affordable food options. I created a collection of lessons to target the need I found in early childhood nutrition education. The first lesson focused on the difference between natural sugar and refined sugar, refined sugar is sugar that has been processed. The second lesson focused on the five food groups; dairy, grains, protein, fruits, and vegetables. The third lesson focused on the importance of eating a balanced meal, that includes the main food groups. Having this knowledge can help eliminate foods that do not meet any nutritional requirements and decrease children's health. My capstone project was conducted at the Green Valley Christian Preschool Center in Watsonville, California. My project was presented to eight children ages four to five, with a diverse socioeconomic background.

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