An evaluation of a nutrition intervention at childcare centres in South Australia.
OBJECTIVE
Research has shown that childcare menus in South Australia, Australia and overseas lack key nutrients recommended for children. This paper describes an incentive initiative that aimed to improve the nutrition provided to children attending childcare centres in the southern metropolitan area of South Australia between 2001 and 2003.


METHODS
To attain the 'Start Right Eat Right' award, aimed at childcare centres, directors and cooks from 50 centres were required to attend training, analyse a current menu for quality and quantity against various tools, review their food policy for essential criteria, have two site visits and have all staff trained in a recognised food safety and hygiene program.


RESULTS
Forty-four (88%) of the centres completed training. Qualitative feedback from 10 awarded centres reported substantial changes and their food policy analysis showed an increase of essential points from an average score of 8.4 to 17.1 (max. score 18). More than 300 staff completed food hygiene training. Fifty per cent of the eligible centres had completed the award at program evaluation.


CONCLUSIONS
This multi-strategic intervention was effective in improving the food provided and nutrition practices in childcare settings. Strategies attributed to its success were an inter-sectoral approach and the creation of supportive environments.
Southern Adelaide Health Service, South Australia. matwiejczyk.louisa@saugov.sa.gov.au
Louisa
L
Matwiejczyk
Julie-Anne
JA
McWhinnie
Kaye
K
Colmer
D002656:Child Day Care Centers; D053198:Child Nutrition Sciences / Q000193:education*; D002669:Child Welfare; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004032:Diet; D005522:Food Services / Q000592:standards*; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008612:Menu Planning / Q000379:methods; D018673:Nutrition Policy; D013021:South Australia