Oral

Consistent with the conference theme, programs for early care and education settings and child care health and early intervention services are key sites where infant and child health can be promoted through prevention initiatives. Despite national child care standards that emphasize the importance of breastfeeding support, many child care facilities find it difficult to provide adequate support for breastfeeding families. Furthermore there are challenges in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding despite its recognized relationship with prevention of pediatric obesity. Additionally physical activity interventions in day care centers play a role. This session will review data and results from interventions that may help increase breastfeeding, health eating and physical activity in group settings such as child care. The findings can provide direction for deployment to other settings, additional research and evaluation.

Session Objectives: 1 - Describe the relationship between child care decisions and breastfeeding duration 2 - Discuss the implications for child care center policies and practices on infant and children's diets, physical activity 3 - Describe programs to help prevent pediatric obesity through different types of interventions

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)