Resumo (EN)
Objective – To assess the knowledge of educators about child malnutrition, obesity, and practices related to food. Methods – This qualitative study was developed in an educational center of the city of Alfenas-MG, where there is partnership between education, service and extension. It were conducted semi-structured interviews with six teachers in June 2011. The interviews were recorded, transcripted and submitted to content analysis. Results – It was found that the teachers were aware of common sense, coupled with their own world-views, customs, values and beliefs. Sedimented in the experiences and situations experienced on malnutrition, obesity, and practices re-lated to feeding, used them in their daily practices. Some identified children with nutritional disorders and attempted to help controlling it, however most attributed this responsibility to parents, not relating them to the conditions and practices of care within their competence. Conclusion – Considering that the training takes place in dietary habits in childhood, early childhood educators need to be trained, but it is essential that they understand the co-responsability in family day-care process.