Episode 45: A Conversation with Janet Nezon About Finding Joy in Food

In this episode, part of our series highlighting presenters from the May 2024 Embracing The Early Years Professional Learning Day, ASCY’s Nancy Baverstock and Leslie Busija engage in a conversation with Janet Nezon, the founder of Rainbow Plate. Janet shares her expertise on understanding children’s eating habits and how mealtimes can create a sense of belonging. She offers valuable tips for addressing food preferences and discusses the importance of balancing nutrition with fun and enjoyment during mealtimes in early childhood settings.  

We’re excited to share that Janet will be joining us in person in Hamilton on November 29th for our upcoming Embracing the Early Years Professional Learning Day! 

Janet holds a BSc from the University of Toronto, as a Specialist in Nutritional Science, and a Master of Health Science in Health Promotion, from University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine. She founded Rainbow Plate with a mission to translate theory into practice; to bring a vibrant and fresh approach to food education for children.  Rainbow Plate’s joyful, sensory-based approach is backed by evidence, including our own published evaluation. It has been woven into engaging programs and resources that inspire children to cultivate lifelong positive relationships with food and eating. Since launching in 2012, Rainbow Plate programs and tools have reached more than 20,000 children and adults across Canada and around the world.  After years facilitating experiential workshops for children, Janet now supports educators, parents, caregivers, and health professionals through practical workshops, speaking, and resources. She has inspired the advancement of food literacy in early years organizations, schools, summer camps, public health, and community settings.      In addition to her academic background, Janet is a proud mom and a grandmother. Her work is rooted in evidence and seasoned with the flavours of real-life experience.           

Instagram: @rainbowplate  
Facebook: facebook.com/RainbowPlate