Knowledge and action related to stimulation development of stunted children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Child Development

Background:

• Toddler stunting remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing regions.
• Understanding the factors influencing stunting is crucial for effective intervention strategies.
• Parental factors, including knowledge and stimulation, are increasingly recognized as key determinants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between parental knowledge and developmental stimulation and the incidence of toddler stunting.
• To analyze the correlation between parental factors and stunting in children aged 6-36 months.
• To provide insights for public health initiatives aimed at reducing childhood stunting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 186 mothers of stunted children aged 6-36 months without comorbidities.
• Data collection utilized questionnaires and checklists.
• Statistical analysis employed the Spearmen Rank correlation test via SPSS.

Main Results:

• A significant correlation (p=0.001) was found between parental knowledge and stimulation and the development of stunting in toddlers.
• The study included mothers aged 20-30 years (67.2%) and predominantly housewives (90.3%).
• Stunted children comprised 52.2% boys and 47.8% girls, with the largest age group being 25-36 months (43%).

Conclusions:

• Parental knowledge and the implementation of developmental stimulation are directly related to the developmental quality of stunted children.
• These findings underscore the critical role of parents in mitigating stunting.
• Interventions should focus on enhancing parental education and promoting stimulation activities.