Promoting physical activity and healthy nutrition practices for African American families with children in early childhood

In this presentation, we will discuss a childhood obesity prevention/reduction program which is based on a national evidence-based program initiated by Head Start, and combined with a locally grown intervention to promote physical activity and positive nutrition in child care settings. This program was field-tested in Washington, DC with 483 early childhood educators and parents of African American children in child care. The curriculum and materials were later adapted for incorporation into a national initiative based on the Let's Move! campaign to fight childhood obesity in African American communities. An interactive format with audiovisuals will be used to engage participants in the movement activities used in the program with children and parents. We will also provide, for participants' viewing, copies of materials used to promote and educate African American communities on healthy nutrition practices and physical activity. We will discuss lessons learned in culturally adapting these activities and materials for African American families with young children. Implications for planning, implementation, evaluation, dissemination and sustainability of future efforts will be discussed.