New online course fosters good nutrition in early learning

KEENE, N.H. - March 31, 2015 - PRLog -- Developers of the award winning Early Sprouts curriculum today announced launch of a new online course, “Growing Healthy Eaters,” for early childhood educators. The course prepares teachers to create childcare environments that help children establish eating behaviors that last a lifetime. Registration is currently available at 50% off the standard $35 course fee through the Early Sprouts initiative website at http://www.earlysprouts.org.

Growing Healthy Eaters provides 7 STARS Continuing Education hours in the Core Competency Area of Health, Safety & Nutrition for early care and education professionals in Washington State and is preapproved for seven professional development hours in New Hampshire. Professional development hours may be available in other states by checking with the state's licensing bureau.

“Preschool teachers have a unique opportunity to foster a lasting enthusiasm for healthy foods in young children,” said Karrie Kalich, Ph.D., initiative director and a registered dietitian and associate professor in the Department of Health Science at Keene State College. “Growing Healthy Eaters provides the information and skills educators need to create childcare environments that are deliberate in their approach to nutrition while being supportive and respectful to educators, children, and families.”

Research shows that instilling healthy eating habits at an early age can help reduce obesity rates and prepare children for success in school.

Growing Healthy Eaters addresses topics especially important to early childhood educators, including picky eaters, food allergies, snack and menu planning, and family engagement.

About the Early Sprouts Initiative

The Early Sprouts initiative fosters development of nutritionally purposeful early care environments. Developed by faculty at Keene State College, the program’s Early Sprouts seed to table curriculum has received awards from the U.S. Surgeon General, the National Gardening Association, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Proceeds from sales of the initiative’s materials and trainings cover direct costs and fund new research and development on children’s nutrition for early childhood educators. http://www.earlysprouts.org