Child Care Provider Training and Supportive Feeding Environments
Author Information
Author(s): Sigman-Grant Madeleine PhD, RD, Christiansen Elizabeth PhD, Fernandez George PhD, Fletcher Janice EdD, Branen Laurel PhD, RD, Price Beth A. PhD, Johnson Susan L. PhD
Primary Institution: University of Nevada Cooperative Extension
Hypothesis
Do child care centers that receive funding from the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) implement more supportive feeding practices than nonfunded centers?
Conclusion
CACFP-funded centers reported more supportive feeding practices, suggesting that training by nutrition professionals is effective in promoting childhood obesity prevention.
Supporting Evidence
- CACFP-funded centers reported more supportive feeding practices in 10 out of 26 areas compared to nonfunded centers.
- 41% of the variance in supportive feeding practices was explained by training factors.
- More CACFP-funded staff were trained by nutrition professionals than nonfunded staff.
Takeaway
When child care staff are trained by nutrition experts, they do a better job of helping kids eat healthy and feel good about their food choices.
Methodology
Surveys were sent to 1600 licensed child care centers, with responses analyzed from 568 centers, focusing on feeding practices and training.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported feeding practices and training experiences.
Limitations
The study's geographic scope was limited to four Western states, which may affect generalizability.
Participant Demographics
The majority of respondents were women, with 44% having a college degree or some college education.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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