Adoption of the Alberta Nutrition Guidelines for Children and Youth: Assessing Organizational Behaviour Change in Childcare Organizations

Abstract

In 2008, the Alberta Government released the Alberta Nutrition Guidelines for Children and Youth as a resource for childcare facilities to translate nutrition recommendations into practical food choices. Using a multiple case study method, early adoption of the guidelines was examined in two childcare centres. Characteristics of the guidelines and organizational and contextual factors influencing uptake of the guidelines were assessed. Data were collected through direct observation, key informant and focus group interviews, documentation of field notes, and obtaining food menus. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, and food menus were compared to the guidelines to assess menu quality and compliance. Overall, the guidelines were perceived positively by childcare providers. Factors found to influence organizational behaviour were leadership, networking, and organizational culture. Organizational characteristics and contextual factors of early adopters are important to understand as they provide insight into what factors influence uptake of nutrition policies in childcare settings.