Early childhood plays a key role in the formation of healthy habits and the establishment
of health literacy. Nonetheless, there are only a few research studies focusing on
the health literacy level of children under the age of eight. The aim of our systematic
review is to explore empirical research on health literacy related to early childhood.
The research was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA protocol. This systematic
review examines 12 studies published between 2013-2022. Results show that research
focuses on different domains of health literacy for children. In relation to children's
food literacy, children understand the relationship between health and nutrition and
they realize the health impact of obesity. The habits connected to oral health are
strongly associated with parents' knowledge of and behaviours around oral health.
Results related to health care situations show that children are able to be actively
involved in decision-making processes in connection with their health. Exploring young
children's health literacy is essential in order to be able to plan health promotion
interventions, embedded into early childhood education. Picture-based messages or
story-based messages supported by illustrations can help measure health literacy in
early childhood and can support the formation of health literacy.
