Picture Books and Healthy Eating Habits: An Intervention Study in a Greek Preschool Setting

Abstract

Experiences with food preferences begin in infancy and continue to develop on children transition to solid food. Children’s food preferences are influenced by availability and familiarity with foods as well as parental modeling and health related picture books. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether picture-books regarding healthy lifestyle can influence children’s eating preferences. A questionnaire related to the use of picture-books at home and lifestyle habits was distributed to all parents. Picture-books were provided to all parents. At the same time children were allocated in two groups: the intervention group, which took part in further activities (cooking), and to a comparison group. Interviews were addressed to the parents after the program. The ethical concern included confidentiality assurance and the choice to withdraw. Findings revealed that the daily reading of books about food was increased in both groups. Most of the families of the intervention group reduced fast food and sweet consumption and increased outdoor activities. Implications on the influence of books and additional activities on promoting child attitudes on healthy food will be discussed.
 
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