Because the development of healthy eating and physical activity habits during early childhood can prevent disease and support a lifetime of good health, nutrition services are a critical component of early childhood programs. This publication provides guidance to preschool programs to help them meet the Connecticut state goal of practicing appropriate eating habits by the end of preschool. The report discusses how programs should provide children with opportunities to choose nutritious meals and snacks. The following components of quality nutrition services are discussed: (1) identifying nutrition needs; (2) serving nutritious foods; (3) modeling good eating practices; (4) creating a developmentally appropriate and safe environment; (5) accommodating special nutrition needs; (6) engaging parents in health nutrition practices; (7) providing nutrition education; and (8) providing staff training. The following strategies for effective nutrition education are then presented: (1) focus on age-appropriate outcomes; (2) provide hands-on sensory experiences; (3) integrate nutrition into existing curricula; (4) create a physical learning environment that promotes nutrition; and (5) promote physical activity. The report includes a nutrition questionnaire for parents to complete prior to meeting with child care staff members, Child and Adult Care Food Program meal patterns for ages 3 to 5 years, requirements for nutrition and food safety policies, and related educational, behavioral, and health outcomes for preschoolers and their families. (Contains 17 references.) (KB)