After a successful kickoff, day two of the Prilep Living Lab continued on May 29th with an engaging workshop focused on sustainable nutrition for early childhood educators. The day’s sessions were filled with insightful discussions and practical activities, aiming to enhance the understanding and implementation of healthy eating practices in kindergartens. On May 28-29, 2024, nearly 200 kindergarten staff members, including carers, teachers, kitchen staff, and administration, participated in the Living Lab focused on promoting healthy and sustainable nutrition for preschool children.
Perception of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Food:
We explored how different foods are perceived as healthy or unhealthy, sustainable or unsustainable and how these perceptions influence kindergarten practices and children’s eating habits. The discussion highlighted the importance of presenting nutritious options in an appealing way to encourage better food choices among young children.
Impact of Food on Child Health and Development:
The workshop delved into the significant impact of nutrition on both physical and psycho-behavioral health. We examined how diet affects children’s growth, cognitive development, and behavior, emphasizing the need for balanced meals in early childhood settings.
Demographic and Health Indicators in Macedonian Kindergartens:
We reviewed current demographic and health indicators, focusing on the status of food practices in kindergartens across Macedonia. The data provided a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in improving the nutritional standards in these educational institutions.
Pedagogical Approaches to Food:
A comprehensive session on pedagogical approaches to integrating food education into daily kindergarten activities was conducted. Educators were introduced to various tools and strategies for incorporating nutrition education into their curriculum, making learning about food fun and engaging for children.
Introduction of “The Magic Plate”:
Participants were informed about the newly produced brochure, “The Magic Plate: A Healthy Eating Guide for Preschool Staff.” This collaborative effort between the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Eduland, Arete (FEAST), and UNICEF, provides both theoretical and practical tools for preschool carers and educators. The guide aims to equip educators with the knowledge and resources needed to foster healthy eating habits in young children.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Mayor of Prilep for his inspiring address to the participants and to Hristina Trpecska, Director of “Nasa Idnina” kindergartens for her hospitality. Special thanks also go to Professor of Pedagogy Alma Tasevska, Gabriela Durcevska Georgievska from the Bureau of Educational Development, Vera Ristovska from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, and the entire Eduland team for their invaluable presentations and interactive activities. Their contributions significantly enriched the workshop and provided participants with practical insights and tools to implement in their educational settings.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Prilep Living Lab continues to unfold, fostering a collaborative environment for sustainable nutrition education in early childhood.
Arete Sustainability 