The Impact of Systematic Exploration of Artworks in Raising Children’s Healthy Eating Habits in Early Years Education
Eleni Tympa, Vasiliki Karavida, AthinaCharissi

Abstract
The aim of this study is to estimate children's knowledge on healthy eating habits through art-based activities. Several studies provide the value of nutrition and environmental education programs as well as arts participation early in life. Art activities stimulate creativity, build brain capacity by providing new problems to solve and attest positive social and healthy outcomes in early childhood. 111 children were involved in the study (56 males and 55 females) from five preschool settings. A questionnaire with images before and after the study was applied to all children. In the meantime, all children took part in an educational program, with nutrition-based activities, basic artwork and specific well-known paintings. The findings suggest that post-intervention children had a more enhanced understanding of healthy and nutritional choices and a critical appreciation that art and art activities can have an important place in daily schedule. The study highlights the need for more involvement in art education as a tool for healthy and environmental issues and result in all-sided children’s development.

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