By Angela Siebenaller, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist 

As early childhood education professionals, our biggest job is to help young children build the foundation necessary for lifelong learning. This includes providing an environment where learning through exploration is encouraged; social wellness, emotional maturity, and self-confidence are nurtured; and students have access to nourishing meals they will enjoy. 

As a registered dietitian nutritionist and parent, I have seen firsthand the difference parents and caregivers can make in establishing lifelong healthy habits with children. Since March is National Nutrition Month, I wanted to point out a few reasons why nutrition is such a priority throughout our national network of childcare centers. Here are just a few:  

1. Proper nutrition is essential for the growth and development of young children. Childcare centers play a vital role in providing nutritious, balanced meals that contain the right combination of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support the development of growing children. Additionally, a healthy diet can help strengthen the body’s immune system, reducing susceptibility to illness and reducing absenteeism. 

2. Children who eat nutritious foods tend to perform better academically. Providing nutritious foods not only supports physical health but also enhances cognitive function, setting them up for success in school and beyond. Many studies have shown the impact a healthy diet can have on student learning. Nutrient-rich foods support optimal brain function, stabilize energy levels, enhance concentration and focus, and improve behavior and mood.  

3. Early childhood is a critical time for establishing lifelong habits and shaping attitudes toward food and nutrition. Children at childcare centers learn to enjoy healthy meals and snacks through consistent exposure to balanced meals and a variety of foods. Children also learn healthy mealtimes behaviors such as table manners, the proper use of utensils, eating at a table with a group of peers, and the development of gross motor skills. Age-appropriate nutrition education integrated into classroom curriculum further supports children in making healthy food choices and lays the foundation for lifelong habits and learning. 

Nutrition in childcare centers is essential for fostering healthy growth, development, learning, and well-being among children, setting the stage for a lifetime of good health habits.