DESCRIPTION OF EATING HABITS IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN AT TK BHAKTI ASUHAN AND TKIT IZZUDDIN PALEMBANG IN 2009

Abstract

Background: Pre-school time is where the children are grouped as active consumers that can choose the food they like, however, they can not choose the food by themselves to be consumed. Parents have responsible for develoving their children eating habit. It will influence the nutrients where at this time they need good food for their growth.

Methods: The research was in descriptive survey using cross sectional approach. The data collected by interview method using questionnaire and Food Frequency Questionnaire and then analyzed by frequency table distribution and cross tabulating.

Result: The children at Bhakti Asuhan and TKIT Izzuddin has good eating habit that is various food ≥ 3 kinds in a week and ≥ 3 times a day (each of them 76,5% and 54,8%). At TKIT Izzuddin more often consume fast food and package food compared from the students at Bhakti Asuhan kindergarten.

Conclusion: The need to increase the knowledge of kindergarten teachers and parents about nutritious food,  and given the knowledge to choose healthy foods and snacks. In addition, the need for further research on the eating habits of pre-school children with the broader scope, such as linking between eating habits with nutritional status of pre-school children.

Keyword: Eating habit, pre-school children