Jennifer House, RD, MSc
FIRST STEP NUTRITION
for something nutrishus
Update: Jennifer was one of my first features when the series started in 2015 and as such, her practice has evolved and shifted focus since then. Her area of expertise has slightly changed, but she continues to share her knowledge through writing and online with her clients.
Today we have Calgary-based dietitian Jennifer. She is a self-employed mom (something I'm still figuring out) and has done some unique things in her practice such as e-courses and co-authoring cookbooks. Like other dietitians, she's a life long learner and has chosen to focus on moms-to-be, moms, and baby nutrition.
Why did you become a RD?
I’ve always been interested in food and cooking. My mom didn’t keep a lot of processed food in the house and I eventually grew to appreciate that! I went right into dietetics from high school, and knew that nutrition would always be practical knowledge to have for me and my family, at every stage.
What area of dietetics do you work in? (*updated January 22, 2020)
I have a private practice called First Step Nutrition, specializing in Baby-led Weaning, picky eating and meal planning for families.
How would you explain what you do? (*updated January 22, 2020)
I help families to make feeding families easier! I offer services for parents exclusively online. This includes a e-courses for Baby-led Weaning and meal planning and a group coaching program for parents of picky eaters.
I am also an author and love writing. I've have authored two books with a publisher: “The Parents' Guide to Baby-led Weaning” and “Baby food in an Instant Pot”. I also do some work with the media, sponsored work with industry.
What are your ‘typical’ daily/weekly tasks? (*updated January 22, 2020)
A large part of my private practice includes blogging, sending newsletters to my subscribers and posting on social media.
On a typical work day I may host a group coaching call online, draft a new blog and batch a few days worth of content for my Facebook groups and Instagram.
What has been your career path? (*updated January 22, 2020)
After graduating, I worked for just a few months casual in a rural hospital before heading back to school for a MSc in Human Nutrition. I enjoy being a student! After that, I worked casual at the Calgary Children’s Hospital and in program planning for 'Healthy Babies'.
After having my first son in 2007, I decided I wanted a flexible schedule and was able to transfer my past work experience to start First Step Nutrition.
What advanced education or special training do you have? (*updated January 22, 2020)
I have a thesis-based MSc from UBC. I also love taking any course targeted specifically at dietitians and have taken dozens of online business courses from how to use Pinterest to Instagram to Search Engine Optimization!
In an ideal world, what does the industry look like 5 years from now? (*updated January 22, 2020)
I would love to see dietitians seen more positively and as the go-to nutrition expert in the public eye. It’s great to see more dietitians in the media and getting the word out about evidence-based nutrition. I hope this continues!
What misinformation about RDs would you like to clear up?
I am not judging you for eating cake, unless you would like to pay me to do so :) In fact, I’m eating the cake myself!
What would you like people to know about RDs? (*updated January 22, 2020)
We have at least 5 years of university-level education. We definitely learn more than the food guide in our training, and provide our clients true holistic care.
What are challenges you encounter as a RD?
Misinformation about what a dietitian is, and what a nutritionist is. Lack of trust in evidence-based information. Many people choose to believe everything they read (which is scary these days!).
What are you passionate about in dietetics? (*updated January 22, 2020)
I’m passionate about making feeding families easier and taking some of the stress off of moms. And ending dinnertime battles with picky eaters and establishing a healthy feeding relationship for kids.
More about Jennifer:
Website: www.firststepnutrition.com
Facebook: First Step Nutrition
Twitter: @firststepnut
Thanks Jennifer!