What Keeps Healthy Habits Going in Preschools?

You might think that once a good program to keep kids active and eating well is started in preschools, it would continue easily. But that's not always the case. Researchers wanted to figure out what makes these healthy habits stick in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. They found that while these programs are great, there are many factors that can make or break their sustainability. Some ECEC services might find it easier to keep these programs going than others. The study looked at both the good and the bad sides of keeping physical activity and nutrition programs going in preschools. They wanted to understand what helps and what hurts in these settings. The aim was to give a clear picture of what influences the sustainability of these programs. One interesting finding was that the size of the ECEC service matters. Smaller services seemed to have an easier time keeping these programs going compared to larger ones. This could be because smaller services have closer connections with families and communities, making it easier to get support. Another important factor was the support and training given to the staff. When staff feels well-trained and supported, they are more likely to keep the programs going. This shows that investing in staff is crucial for the long-term success of these healthy habit programs. The study also found that the type of program can affect sustainability. Some programs might fit better with the ECEC service's routine and resources than others. This means that choosing the right program is key to making sure it sticks around. Overall, the study highlights the need to consider many factors when trying to keep healthy habits going in preschools. It's not just about starting a good program, but also about making sure it fits well and has the right support.