On April 1, 2026, senior lecturer Ilhame Ismayilova and lecturer Aygun Ismayilova of the Department of Pedagogy and Psychology at Mingachevir State University conducted a scientific seminar on “Healthy Nutrition and Table Manners for Preschool-Age Children” at Nursery-Kindergarten No. 10 named after “Garenfil” in Mingachevir. The seminar attracted significant interest from specialists and education professionals.
The seminar opened with welcoming remarks by the head of the institution, Aynur Isimkhanli, who emphasized the strategic importance of healthy nutrition and table manners for preschool-age children in the modern educational system. The seminar aimed to analyze the scientific and methodological foundations for developing proper eating habits and table etiquette in children.
During the seminar, lecturer Aygun Ismayilova presented on “The Health of the Future Begins at the Table,” providing participants with guidance on proper use of tableware, hygiene habits, ethical behavior, and addressing the challenges of children eating in front of phones or televisions.
Senior lecturer and psychologist Ilhame Ismayilova discussed the “Psychopedagogical Aspects of Developing Healthy Eating Habits and Table Manners in Preschool-Age Children,” emphasizing that eating at this age is not only about energy intake but also a learning environment where emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and aesthetic sense develop.
Methodologist Terane Movsumova and senior nurses Khayala Huseynova and Irade Abdullayeva provided detailed information on the biochemical and physiological aspects of preschool children’s nutrition. The presentations were highly appreciated by the kindergarten administration and participants, followed by extensive discussions.
The seminar concluded with several recommendations:
- Unified practice: Healthy eating and table rules taught at kindergarten should be reinforced at home by parents (Kindergarten-Family partnership).
- Awareness raising: Preparation of methodological materials titled “Healthy and Cultured Table” for parents.
- Role model: Educators and parents should demonstrate healthy eating and table behavior as a living example for children.
Such scientific and awareness-raising seminars contribute to enhancing the knowledge and skills of academic staff and education professionals while fostering the development of healthy lifestyle habits in children.