Understanding the Role of Early Childhood Nutrition in Shaping Educational Outcomes: A Study in Nadia District

Early childhood is a critical period for growth and cognitive development, where nutrition plays a pivotal role in determining a child's readiness for school and academic performance. This study examines the relationship between nutritional status, including anthropometric indicators (height, weight, and BMI), and micronutrient intake (iron), and the educational outcomes of children in Nadia District, West Bengal. A sample of 30 children was assessed using primary data collected on their physical growth metrics and academic readiness scores, alongside school performance records. The findings indicate a strong and statistically significant correlation between iron intake and both academic readiness and performance, with weight also emerging as a notable predictor. ANOVA and regression analyses demonstrate that nutritional differences significantly impact educational outcomes. These results underscore the urgent need for integrated nutrition-education interventions at the community level to enhance early learning capacity and long-term educational success.