P66 Feasibility, Acceptability and Effectiveness of ‘Read for Nutrition’ Program in Childcare Settings

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of ‘Read for Nutrition’ program in childcare providers and effectiveness of the program on children's preference and consumption of a target, commonly disliked vegetable (broccoli) in childcare settings. Use of Theory or Research The ‘Read for Nutrition’ program is based on the Adult Learning theory. The program includes research-based strategies for improving children's preference and consumption of vegetables in the childcare settings via interactive shared reading while implementing enthusiastic role modeling, engaging children's senses and verbal praise. Target Audience Childcare providers (n = 16) caring for preschool children ages 3-5 years old. Program Description The ‘Read for Nutrition’ is a three-week professional development program consisting of a reading component (lesson) and coaching component. In this program, childcare providers read a lesson that provides them with a roadmap for applying the strategies and received two one-on-one coaching sessions. Participants were asked to implement the strategies while reading the book “Monsters Don't Eat Broccoli” multiple times with children during the program. Evaluation Methods Feasibility and acceptability using a self-report survey. Survey questions included enjoyment, ease of implementation and integration of the strategies described in the program with existing curriculum, and childcare providers perceived effectiveness of the strategies. Effectiveness was evaluated by measuring children's preference and consumption of broccoli. Results Children's preference for broccoli increased significantly after the program (t = 2.217, P = .03). Also, proportional consumption of broccoli increased for children who have received five or more exposures to the book reading experience (n = 47) (t = 2.765; P = .008). Number of exposures to the book was a significant predictor for proportional consumption of broccoli (β = .304, P = .006). Conclusions The program was perceived as feasible and acceptable by the providers. Furthermore, they were willing to use these strategies in their existing curriculum. Funding USDA NIFA, Nebraska Agricultural Experiment Station.