Digital tools to improve parenting behaviour in low-income settings: a mixed-methods feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Global Health
• Child Development

Background:

• Digital parenting interventions offer cost-effective early child development services for low-income populations.
• The feasibility of such interventions in remote, low-resource settings remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of a Facebook Messenger-based digital parenting intervention (Afinidata) in rural Peru.
• To explore necessary adaptations for local context in Latin America.

Main Methods:

• A 5-month mixed-methods pilot study in Cajamarca, Peru (February-July 2021).
• 180 mothers with children aged 2-24 months and smartphone access were enrolled.
• In-person interviews, focus groups, and in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted.

Main Results:

• High smartphone/internet access (88%) in rural Peru.
• The intervention was utilized by 84% of mothers, with 87% finding it useful.
• 42% of mothers remained active after 5 months; adaptations included navigation support and a printed booklet.

Conclusions:

• Digital parenting interventions are feasible and well-received in remote areas of Peru.
• The Afinidata platform shows potential for supporting low-income families in Latin America.
• Context-specific adaptations are crucial for successful implementation.