PLAN DE COMUNICACIÓN NUTRICIONAL PARA IMPLEMENTAR DIETAS EN NIÑOS PREESCOLARES EN UNA GUARDERÍA DE QUITO.

Abstract

Nutrition in children is an issue of great importance, all the physical and intellectual development of the individual depends on it. This topic is often overlooked or underestimated in some child care centers in our country. In this research, I worked in a child care center or private day care center in the north of Quito city. I assessed sociodemographic and nutritional quality aspects in homes in a parallel way to the evaluation of anthropometric data of infants. I worked with the voluntary consent of the parents. Affordable, adequate and nutritious recipes were developed based on local food sources and dietary practices with the potential to improve the way of feeding of the chosen preschool population, according to WHO guidelines feeds. A survey-reminder 24 hours in the diet was applied as well as the evaluation of quality food in local markets. Selected mothers tested recipes at home for two weeks; they were supported with a training plan to improve the menu at the nursery, as well as the staff in charge of infants. This applied research protocol improved eating habits and perceptions of parents and the staff of the child center, so I recommend continuing this support to nurseries and centers of childcare.