Integrating Food Education in Early Childhood: Role of Teachers and Its Impact on Food Security Leslie Alexandra JumboVélez1, Cinthya Johana Jumbo Vélez2, Holger Marcelo Jumbo Vélez3 1Instituto Superior Tecnológico Cariamanga, 0000-0003-0713-5234, la_jum

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37431/conectividad.v6i3.265

Keywords:

Food Education; Food Security; Teachers, Nutrition; Early Childhood Education.

Abstract

This study analyzed how the inclusion of food education in early childhood school curricula in Ecuador, together with the active role of teachers, contributes to improving children's food security. Through a literature review, research on the implementation of educational programs in nutrition and its impact on vulnerable children was explored. The results indicated that these programs, when applied comprehensively and with teacher support, improve academic performance, physical well-being, and cognitive development. Activities such as school gardens promoted food self-sufficiency and raised awareness of balanced diets from an early age. It was concluded that it is crucial to strengthen teacher training in nutrition and ensure adequate resources to implement these programs. In addition, it was recommended that food education be formally and sustainably integrated into school curricula as a means of promoting food security and long-term child well-being.

Published

2025-07-18

How to Cite

Jumbo Vélez, L. A., Jumbo Vélez, C. J., & Jumbo Vélez, H. M. (2025). Integrating Food Education in Early Childhood: Role of Teachers and Its Impact on Food Security Leslie Alexandra JumboVélez1, Cinthya Johana Jumbo Vélez2, Holger Marcelo Jumbo Vélez3 1Instituto Superior Tecnológico Cariamanga, 0000-0003-0713-5234, la_jum. CONECTIVIDAD, 6(3), 146–156. https://doi.org/10.37431/conectividad.v6i3.265