Nutrition education actually begins when children are very young, at about the age of two. Toddlers at this age tend to do as they see their parents do, so teaching by example is what works best this early. The toddlers who see their parents help themselves to a healthy diet are going to have an easier time learning to take care of themselves than those who see their folks tear open candy bars or make a regular habit of fast food. And, it makes it easier for them to go along with school nutrition programs once they reach that age.