Review of U.S. State Regulations on Obesity Prevention in Child Care
Author Information
Author(s): Benjamin Sara E, Cradock Angie, Walker Elizabeth M, Slining Meghan, Gillman Matthew W
Primary Institution: Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Hypothesis
What are the individual state nutrition and physical activity regulations related to childhood obesity for child care centers and family child care homes in the United States?
Conclusion
Many states lack specific nutrition and physical activity regulations related to childhood obesity for child care facilities.
Supporting Evidence
- Tennessee had six of the eight regulations for child care centers.
- Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, and Nevada had five of the eight regulations.
- The District of Columbia, Idaho, Nebraska, and Washington had none of the eight regulations.
Takeaway
This study looked at the rules in different states about what kids can eat and how much they can play in child care. It found that many states don't have good rules to help prevent obesity in young children.
Methodology
A review of regulations for child care facilities for all 50 states and the District of Columbia was conducted, examining key nutrition and physical activity items.
Limitations
The review may not reflect the most current regulations as states may have revised them since the last review.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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