Programs & Services
Nutrition
The White House Task Force on Childhood obesity report states the following: The childhood obesity epidemic in America is a national health crisis. One in every three children is overweight or obese. One third of children born now are expected to develop diabetes in their lifetime. While these statistics are striking, there is much reason to be hopeful, because we now know more about the risk factors associated with childhood obesity. The goals of the White
House Task Force are to focus on the following topics:
Create a healthy start on life for children, empower parents to make healthy choices for their families, ensure access to healthy, affordable food and to increase opportunities for physical activity.
Child Inc is also dedicated to this issue and is working towards the same goals for the community of Travis County. Head Start programs are designed to create a healthy start for children and also to empower parents to make choices that can benefit their families, especially their children.
Child Inc Head Start Center-Based Programs provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks that follow the meal patterns of the Child and Adult Care Food Program. These meal patterns ensure nutritious and appropriate foods are provided to children in the program. All meals and snacks are designed to be low in fats and sugars, vitamin rich and provide ½ to 2/3 of the nutrition requirements per day for young children.
At Child Inc, we are dedicated to providing our children with the healthy foods necessary for physical, social, and emotional growth and development. At the center-based programs, food is served family-style. This enhances social and developmental skills, such as decision-making, and teaches manners. The staff also uses this opportunity to educate the children on food and nutrition. The foods and nutrients are discussed and children are encouraged to try new foods. A pleasant environment is provided in the classroom, and children are allowed ample time to eat and enjoy their meals and snacks.
Head Start also recognizes and accommodates the individual dietary needs and the cultural differences of the children.
Child Inc promotes comprehensive Nutrition Education to the families we serve. This includes not only nutritious menus and foods, but also nutrition education classes for parents as well as individual counseling.
Child Inc encourages parents to be positive role models for their children. Setting healthy and active examples for your family is the best way to influence your children to make healthy choices. The best way to show your child love is by spending time with them.
Tips For a Healthy, Active Family
For more information, contact Child Inc at (512) 451-7361 or 1(800)-222-4051