Nutrition policies and practices of New York City daycare centers and the dietary behaviors of children who attend the daycare centers

Childhood overweight is a significant health problem in the U.S. Few research studies evaluate dietary intakes of preschool-aged children and the environmental factors that influence their diets. This study evaluated nutrition policies and practices, menus, and dietary intakes of 240 preschool-aged children who attended group daycare centers in Manhattan and three surrounding boroughs of New York City (NYC). A Director Survey and Building Mealtime Environment and Relationships inventory were used to collect data about nutrition policies and practices at 40 daycare centers. Copies of current menus were collected from the centers. Observations of foods eaten at breakfast, mid-morning snack, and lunch were conducted in classrooms at the daycare centers. A Household Survey was administered to 200 primary caregivers of preschool-aged children at 16 centers to collect data about food behaviors and children's intakes at home. Results showed that nutrition policies and practices of most daycare centers met nutrition requirements mandated by New York State and NYC. Foods and beverages listed on menus generally complied with current national recommendations. The selection of foods and beverages offered to children while at daycare were more healthful than foods and beverages provided at home. Children's observed dietary intakes from breakfast through lunch at the daycare centers did not supply half of their daily nutrition requirements for energy and many nutrients. Children were less likely to consume healthful foods such as fruits and vegetables ≥1 times/day at home if primary caregivers reported that they never purchased those foods from produce stands or farmers markets, purchased frozen or canned fruits and vegetables ≤1 time/week, or ate family meals or meals prepared at home ≤6 days/week. Children were more likely to consume unhealthful foods such as French fries, fruit drinks, desserts, or snack foods if primary caregivers reported that they ate meals from fast food or other restaurants ≥1 times/week or ate foods while watching television. These findings are consistent with studies of older children and suggest the need for policy evaluation, nutrition education, and health interventions to ensure that daycare centers and home environments support healthful dietary practices during early childhood.