First Steps Curriculum Project

Contact: Beth Ogata (bogata@uw.edu)
Core Function: Technical Assistance and Outreach Training

The First Steps Program Curriculum is a set of self-study modules created by CHDD nutrition faculty for Registered Dietitians (RDs) working in the First Steps program for the Department of Health. The curriculum consists of a set of nine self-study modules which have recently undergone extensive updating. Module topics cover clinical skill-building and the role of the RD in the First Steps program; performing the nutrition assessment; nutrition for normal pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding; nutrition for the young infant; and nutrition therapy for specific conditions of pregnant women and infants.

Each online module takes from 30 to 60 minutes to complete and includes a quiz on the content. RDs who achieve a score of at least 80% receive continuing education credit with a certificate which can be downloaded and printed. Each module provides a list of resources on the specific module topic, including links to relevant websites.