Using senses promotes vege eating in preschoolers

Sensory-based food education of three to five-year-old children increases their willingness to choose healthy foods, according to a new study. Kindergarten children, including those identified as picky eaters, who were educated using the Sapere method were more likely to choose vegetables, berries and fruit.

The Sapere method makes use of children’s natural way of relying on all five senses when learning new things, University of Eastern Finland researchers say. The approach teaches children to get to know their senses and tastes and to articulate what they’re experiencing, building their self-confidence.

Public Health Nutrition, May 2018