A Turkish perspective on nutrition education and preschool children

Preschool education is extremely limited in Turkey, suggesting an absence of public recognition of its importance and a lack of state support. In the 'VI. Five Years Development Plan', it was exposed that the target in preschool education could not be reached. Especially, regional differences played an important role. According to population and health research in Turkey in 1998 for those under the age of five, the prevalence of stunted growth among children was 16%. Since children's physical and mental developments depend on a nutritious diet, it is emphasized that nutrition education must be diffuse and organized education for both children and their families. At the universities in Turkey, the faculties of education graduate the preschool education teachers. The syllabus of these departments shows that nutrition education is given to the students. Especially, during the early years when children are sensitive and are captive listeners and when habits are formed, nutrition education is a must in the formation of health-promoting nutritional concepts and behaviours. Nutrition education can change behavioural risk factors, and target existing eating patterns, food preparation, and choosing specific types of food.