La alimentación saludable como factor clave en el desarrollo integral de los niños de educación inicial, Machala (2024)

Abstract

The degree project entitled “Healthy Eating as a Key Factor in the Integral Development of Preschool Children” emerges from the need to promote proper eating habits at the preschool level, following the observation that the snacks brought by students lack sufficient nutritional value and do not contribute positively to their development. The purpose of the research was to describe how healthy eating influences the integral development of preschool-aged children. To this end, a quantitative methodology was applied, using a non-experimental, descriptive research design, along with tools such as observation sheets, checklists, and surveys, applied to a population consisting of 44 parents and 44 children.

The findings revealed inconsistencies between what legal guardians express about healthy eating and the actual dietary practices of the students, who consume foods that are either low in nutritional quality or unbalanced in composition—products that merely satisfy hunger without offering any meaningful benefit. These patterns reflect inappropriate eating behaviors, with negative implications for the student population.

In response to this situation, a food guide was developed, which includes a sample menu, a classification of food groups, and practical recommendations to improve the nutritional quality of school meals. The proposal was evaluated in terms of technical, economic, social, and environmental feasibility, leading to the conclusion that its implementation is both viable and beneficial for the entire educational community and families. The guide is intended to serve as an educational and preventive tool that supports the comprehensive development of children through balanced nutrition from early childhood onward.