2012- 21st Annual NC State Undergraduate Research Symposium

Session Time : 4/10/12 10:30 AM - 4/10/12 11:45 AM

Content Area : Food, Bioprocessing, and Nutrition Sciences

Poster Appointment: , -

Student Presenters :
Mariam Rashid Biology

Mentors and/or Co-Authors :
Suzie Goodell Food, Bioprocessing & Nutrition Sciences
Satoko Chika Food Science

Abstract Title : Assessing Preschool Teachers' Definition of a Positive Mealtime Environment

Abstract :
According to the guidelines by the American Dietetic Association, teachers should know how to create a positive mealtime environment; however, the definition of a ‘positive mealtime environment’ is not given. A positive mealtime environment is necessary, because the environment a child is in can affect their eating habits. Preschool teachers of 3-5 year olds from the West Coast of the United States were interviewed about their perceived definition of a positive mealtime environment. Our results indicated that teachers defined a positive mealtime environment as a place where children build healthy eating habits and learn various types of social and motor skills. Teachers also defined a positive mealtime environment as an fun, interacting environment where everyone is engaged and encouraged to try new foods. The information gathered from this data will be used to create educational materials that will help teachers make it easier to create a positive mealtime environment.