Comparison of Parent and Child Reported Fruit and Vegetable Preferences

Abstract

Research has demonstrated health habits formed in early childhood persist into adulthood, especially food preferences. Parents can play an influential role in the development of preferences, due to their involvement in shaping early dietary behaviors. The purpose of this study was to compare fruit and vegetable (FV) food preferences of 3–5 year old children enrolled in a Head Start program as reported by parents and the children themselves. Ten target fruits (n=6) and vegetables (n=4) were chosen based on published accounts of commonly consumed FV in this age group. Parents were asked to report their child's FV preference on a 5‐ point Likert scale (strongly likes to strongly dislikes). A researcher developed electronic tool was utilized to assess each child's FV preference. The tool assessed preference using a 5‐point Likert scale (very yucky to very yummy) anchored with stars increasing in size. Using iPads, children were shown images of each FV in a random order. Information concerning children's exposure to FV in the home and school environment was also assessed through parent report and school menus. This study serves to establish baseline data regarding parental opinion of their child's FV preference compared to the child's reported FV preference. Information obtained from this study can be used to develop future nutrition education materials and interventions for preschool‐aged children and their parents.