Hearty, the Heart Foundation’s big red ambassador, was in Kaitangata and Balclutha to present Kai Kids Preschool and Rig River Educare with Tohu Manawa Ora Healthy Heart Awards.
The Ministry of Health-funded programme helps create environments with healthy eating and physical activity for under-5s and their whānau.
Kai Kids received their rito bronze-level certificate after a year and a-half on the programme.
"We joined because it provided us with new, exciting ideas ... to teach our tamariki about healthy eating," head kaiako (teacher) Saskia Webber said.
Uninterrupted, play-based learning with "courageous" physical activity was also a key feature in the programme.
Big River Educare received their ten year silver whanau award.
"Our tamariki love being outdoors, so getting involved in active movement activities comes naturally," manager Philippa Geary said.
"Our vege garden is a favourite place for tamariki to explore.
"We have had wonderful support from whānau who share family recipes for lunchbox ideas and support our waste-free Wednesday."
Otago Heart Foundation adviser Qa-t-a Amun was thrilled to see the progress made by the Clutha preschools.
"We provide resources, planning tools, and one-on-one support to lead them to success.
"[And] Kai Kids and Big River have taken fantastic steps towards creating heart-healthy environments and are committed to continuing their journey towards supporting tamariki to thrive."
