In order to support continued efforts to improve and refine California WIC's nutrition education program, a literature review was commissioned to assess selected nutrition education models and approaches. Published and non-published sources were reviewed and WIC professionals with experience in a particular approach were interviewed to learn from their experiences. Materials reviewed include WIC program materials, individual and group counseling models and approaches, counseling and educational approaches for low-literacy and multicultural populations, learning theories, and community level interventions. Approaches were described and summarized and implications for applying these approaches are provided. A synthesis of the implications lead to the following key recommendations for future directions for California WIC's nutrition education: 1) Conduct formative research to identify WIC client values, perceptions, needs, and interests. 2) Fully integrate participant centered counseling and facilitated group discussion into WIC's everyday practice. 3) Develop a holistic approach to nutrition education that places nutrition as an integral part of family dynamics and child development rather than an isolated issue. 4) Engage clients in developing their own individualized nutrition education plan. 5) Assure that all WIC educational materials are appropriate for low literacy populations. 6) Pursue community involvement and collaboration to make environmental and community level changes that promote good nutrition and good health. 7) Apply learning theories to the dissemination of ideas and new practices within California WIC. Engage staff in developing new practices, obtain staff buy-in at all levels, present clear benefits to change, provide staff with the skills needed to implement a new practice.
Learning Objectives: After attending this presentation, the participant will be able to: 1)identify 3 learning theories that are applicable to WIC 2) Describe how WIC can use innovative education models to redefine WIC's nutrition education 3) List 3 implications for WIC when adopting the Facilitated Group Discussion model
Keywords: WIC, Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.