178. Early Life Nutrition is Key to Wellness with Cynthia Jackson

<p dir="ltr">Hopefully we all know the importance of nutrition early in life, but not enough schools offer nutrition education. And since children often do what their parents do, adults’ poor food choices get passed down generation after generation. </p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">This week on the podcast, I’m talking with Cynthia Jackson of Educare about this critical aspect of early childhood development. Cynthia shares the profound impact of a good diet during the early years on long-term health and well-being. We explore how organizations like Educare are addressing food insecurity among families and empowering children to make healthier food choices.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The conversation highlights innovative initiatives like WISE (We Inspire Smart Eating), which encourages children to enjoy more fruits and vegetables, both at home and at school. We also explore the role of family engagement, community gardens, and experiential learning in fostering healthier habits from an early age.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Tune in to discover how education and practical programs are transforming lives by providing access to nutritious food and empowering young learners to develop lifelong healthy eating habits.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <h2 dir="ltr">About Cynthia Jackson:</h2> <p> </p> <p dir="ltr">Cynthia D. Jackson leads the Educare Learning Network of high-quality birth-to-five schools and is Senior Vice President at Start Early.Previously, she served as national director of training and technical assistance for Healthy Families America at Prevent Child Abuse America. Cynthia holds a master’s degree in counseling and health education from the University of North Texas.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <h2 dir="ltr">Jump in the Conversation:</h2> <p> </p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">[1:56] - Where Cynthia’s passion for education and nutrition began</p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">[3:50] - When schools align with dietary guidelines for americans, health, wel