Food-Based Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Learning Activities May Reduce Decline in Preschoolers' Skin Carotenoid Status.

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of food-based science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) learning activities on preschoolers' liking of 9 target vegetables and objectively-assessed fruit and vegetable (FV) intake.

Methods: Seven hands-on, food-based STEAM learning activities were implemented to expose children to 9 target vegetables in 3 Head Start preschools (11 classrooms) across North Carolina. Child-reported vegetable liking scores and skin carotenoid status (SCS) were dependent variables collected at baseline, midpoint, and posttest.

Comparison of Parent and Child Ratings of Fruit and Vegetable Liking to Assess Parent Accuracy as Proxy Reporters.

This study examined the accuracy of parent-report child fruit/vegetable (FV) liking. Child/parent dyads (n = 24) were recruited from six Head Start preschools in North Carolina. Liking for 10 FVs was assessed using a validated pictorial tool for children; a similar scale was used for parents.

Teacher Perceptions of Multilevel Policies and the Influence on Nutrition Education in North Carolina Head Start Preschools.

Objective: To develop a theory that explains the process of how teachers' perception of multilevel policies may influence nutrition education (NE) teaching strategies in Head Start preschools.

Design: Semistructured telephone interviews.

Setting: North Carolina Head Start preschools.