Balanced Nutrition Health Education for Infants and Toddlers Increase Parental Knowledge in Preventing Stunting

Abstract

Stunting is caused by chronic malnutrition that affects Indonesian children, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional consequences. Families play a crucial role in providing balanced nutrition to prevent stunting, yet many parents lack the necessary knowledge, necessitating targeted educational interventions. This study assesses the effectiveness of a balanced nutrition education program in enhancing parental knowledge and awareness of stunting prevention among families with infants and toddlers. Using a one-group pre-test and post-test design, 111 mothers participated in the study. Baseline knowledge was assessed through a structured questionnaire. An educational intervention, delivered through discussions, demonstrations, and audiovisual tools, focused on balanced nutrition principles and practical applications. Post-intervention knowledge levels were reassessed, and changes were analyzed using a paired t-test. Parental knowledge significantly improved post-intervention, with the proportion of respondents with good knowledge increasing from 27.03% to 79.28%. Factors influencing outcomes included parental motivation, availability for caregiving, and routine health post-visits. First-time parents and those unemployed showed higher engagement and receptivity. Tailored health education effectively enhances knowledge of stunting prevention. Interactive methods and audiovisual tools are recommended, alongside policies supporting routine counseling and culturally sensitive approaches to address educational gaps and promote optimal nutrition practices.