Texas Healthy Building Blocks
Texas Healthy Building Blocks (THBB) is a state-wide recognition program delivered through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension (AgriLife) that provides evidence-based obesity prevention training to daycares, also known as Early Childhood Education programs (ECEs).
THBB helps ECEs identify ways to improve their programs and create healthier environments for children. THBB does this by providing ECEs with Technical Assistance Consultants who work with ECEs to set and achieve goals, focusing on the following areas:
- Child Nutrition
- Physical Activity
- Breastfeeding & Infant Feeding
- Oral Health
- Outdoor Play and Learning
- Screen Time
- Farm to ECE
ECEs that meet their goals in the focus areas listed above have the opportunity to earn THBB recognition. ECEs that meet or exceed recognition criteria are featured below on our Texas Healthy Building Blocks Recognition Map, which highlights ECEs across the state that are implementing best practices for obesity prevention.
THBB Recognition Map
THBB Farm to ECE Reinforcement Project
ECEs currently participating in THBB that are interested in strengthening their Farm to ECE efforts are encouraged to participate in the THBB Farm to Early Care and Education (F2ECE) Reinforcement Project, delivered through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension (AgriLife). F2ECE is an extension of the established Farm to School initiative, which enhances school food purchasing and education practices.
Through the F2ECE Reinforcement Project, AgriLife provides ECEs with the following resources that focus on food, agriculture, and gardening:
- Farm to ECE-focused staff training resources
- Children’s books
- Educational materials designed to help centers achieve THBB recognition
AgriLife accepts applications year-round, with activities beginning in Spring 2026. ECEs interested in the THBB F2ECE Reinforcement Project should fill out the Farm to ECE Support Kit Interest Form to receive an application. AgriLife will provide ECEs with more information about the F2ECE Reinforcement Project via email. In that email, ECEs will be instructed to complete their initial THBB self-assessment in Farm to ECE and sign a participant agreement that includes the final requirement of a success story submission.