Development of a Picture Book Presenting the Local Specialty of Yamaguchi Prefecture and Its Evaluation by Kindergarten Teachers

Abstract

Previous studies have noted the necessity of exposure to local specialty experiences from early developmental stages, such as infancy. Based on this, a picture book presenting the local specialty in Yamaguchi Prefecture was developed, and kindergarten teachers used and evaluated it in order to confirm its usability. Many kindergarten teachers, including those without knowledge of the presented local specialty, were willing to use the picture book during reading sessions with children. They also regarded it as suitable for students aged 4-6, implying the feasibility of food education, such as knowledge about the local specialty, for pre-schoolers. Children who looked at the picture book while the teachers read it out showed positive reactions, such as "Looks delicious!" and "Great!" Based on these results, the development of picture books presenting the local specialty may be useful to promote children's interest in meals and dishes, in addition to providing opportunities for them to see and learn about such food.