Small Bites for Big Steps videos will support kids have the best start to life
Small Bites for Big Steps: Empowering Educators in First 2000 days
Northern Sydney Early Childhood Educators have a new resource to support them help children get the healthiest start to life. The Small Bites for Big Steps video suite was developed by Northern Sydney Local Health District’s Early Years Population Health Promotion team, with expert contribution from the Child, Youth and Family Health Service. Nicole Tate, Early Years Program Manager said the first 2000 days, or first five years, of life is crucial for children to develop healthy habits and be more likely to grow into healthy teenagers and adults. “The Small Bites for Big Steps video suite gives educators, and families, practical tips and ideas on how to enhance physical development and encourage healthy behaviours across three age groups; 0 to 18 months, 18 months to three years and three years to five years,” Nicole said. “Educators in Early Childhood Education and Care Centres are often the people who spend the most time with children outside of their family, so they can have a very influential and key role in promoting and encouraging these healthy habits. “In fact, it was the educators themselves who identified the need for short, accessible, and trusted information that the videos provide. We are excited to develop a resource to meet their needs.”
teaching practices is such an important part of the initiative,” Nicole said. Paul Klarenaar, Director Population and Planetary Health, said the First 2000 Days Framework is a pivotal policy document for NSW Health. “This engaging and informative video suite is a game changer for addressing key parts of the policy,” Paul said. “The videos also support the NSW Health Healthy Eating and Active Living Strategy by empowering the viewer to share and implement the strategies suggested.” While the videos are targeted at teachers, educators, families and carers, all health professionals working with children aged 0 to five years are encouraged to share these videos with their clients and community groups. For more information on the Small Bites for Big Steps Video Series or Professional Development Packages, visit: nshp.com. au/SmallBitesBigSteps, email NSLHD- SmallBitesforBigSteps@health.nsw.gov.au or phone 8797 7298.
The videos have also been used to develop professional development courses for educators, including three courses that are NSW Education Standards Authority accredited. “Providing educators with free professional development to aid their
Health Promotion Officer Cara gets ready to present the next video topic
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NSLHDNEWS | ISSUE 11|23 JUNE 2023
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