Effectiveness of "Healthy Children Healthy Weights" wellness policy training on childcare center environment

Background/Objective: Most American children receive childcare outside the home, making the nutritional environment of childcare centers an ideal target in addressing childhood obesity. We evaluated the effectiveness of wellness policy training on the nutritional environment of childcare centers in a large Midwestern city.

Methods: In fall 2013 two separate half-day trainings on healthy policies were offered to administrators and providers of licensed childcare facilities by a regional early-education referral agency. Training was adapted from the “Healthy Children Healthy Weights” program created by a local public health organization. Before each training, a survey was administered to assess center policies and nutritional environment. Four months after the training, participating centers completed a second survey, similar to the first. Barriers to creating a healthy environment were included in both surveys. 

Results: Sample description(n=25): 56% directors, 52% Head Start programs. Written polices: 24% nutrition standards exceeding CACFP requirements, 48% nutrition standards for food brought from home, 48% minimal physical activity/free-play time, 20% limits on screen time. Most common barriers to addressing obesity centers: insufficient funds(48%), lack of support from parents/families(40%), limitations of food vendors(32%), lack of nutrition education resources(32%). Head Start programs and program directors less likely to report insufficient funds as barrier to addressing obesity in centers(p=.017,p=.047). Follow-up survey analysis will be completed by April 2013.  

Conclusions: Baseline data indicates a lack of written policies addressing nutrition and physical activity standards in childcare centers. Results of this study will inform resource agencies and licensing organizations on how to address obesity in childcare facilities.