Nurturing the Future: Understanding maternal knowledge of child development in Oman
Watfa Al-Mamari1, Ahmed B Idris1, Saquib Jalees1
1Department Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, University Medical City, Muscat, Oman.
Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
|July 11, 2025
Summary
Omani women of childbearing age show significant gaps in infant developmental care knowledge, especially those with less education. Targeted interventions are crucial to improve maternal understanding and support child development.
Area of Science:
- Maternal and Child Health
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Infant developmental care is crucial for early childhood outcomes.
- Understanding maternal knowledge is key to designing effective health interventions.
- Limited data exists on the specific knowledge of infant development among Omani women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the knowledge of Omani women of childbearing age regarding infant developmental care.
- To identify factors associated with knowledge levels in infant development.
- To inform the development of targeted educational strategies.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,006 Omani women of childbearing age.
- Knowledge assessed using the validated Knowledge of Infant Development Inventory (KIDI) questionnaire.
- Statistical analysis to correlate KIDI scores with demographic variables (age, education, employment, parity).
Main Results:
- The average correct response rate on the KIDI was 63%.
- Higher education levels and employment status were significantly linked to better infant development knowledge (P < 0.001).
- Prevalent misconceptions were noted regarding infant sensory development and milestones.
Conclusions:
- Significant knowledge deficits in infant developmental care exist among Omani women.
- Educational interventions should prioritize women with lower educational attainment.
- Enhancing maternal knowledge is essential for promoting optimal child development in Oman.
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