Development and evaluation of an intervention targeting parenting practices associated with obesity-related behaviours in young children attending playgroup

Abstract

This thesis focussed on obesity prevention in children under five years by targeting parenting practices that support the development of healthy lifestyle behaviours in respect to eating, active play, screen time and sleep. An intervention, developed from focus groups with parents, was trialled in community playgroups in Brisbane and was both feasible and acceptable. The aim was to support parents to use autonomy promoting parenting practices. The program, unique in the community playgroup setting, consisted of five fortnightly sessions, delivered during playgroup time. A peer facilitator led brief conversations around parenting challenges and strategies for using appropriate parenting practices.