Abstract
The prevalence of obesity among children in the United States is a major health concern and is associated with increased health risks. The goal of this intervention was to develop and pilot test strategies based on mindful eating practices that foster healthy eating behaviors among elementary school children and their families. Mindful eating practice engages all of ones senses and has been shown to decrease impulsive food decisions and increase awareness of hunger and fullness cues. Using Experiential Learning Theory (ELT), class interventions and take-home activities were developed to teach mindful eating strategies to Hispanic and non-Hispanic 3rd through 5th grade elementary school children and their parents. The results of this research will: 1) contribute to the scientific literature regarding the impact of mindful eating practice on children’s eating behavior, 2) provide an alternate strategy for weight loss and management among children, and 3) provide parents and teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote mindful eating among children and families.
Highlights
Since 1980, the prevalence of obesity among young children has doubled, and the current rates of childhood overweight and obesity remain a troubling trend and major public health concern (Pelone, et al, 2012)
The prevalence of overweight and obesity is disproportionately distributed amongst ethnic groups, and in California the rate of increase has been more noticeable among Latinos and Pierson, S., Goto, K., Giampaoli, J., Wylie, A., Seipel,B., Buffardi, K. /Californian Journal of Health Promotion 2016, Volume 14, Issue 3, 70-76
Does mindful eating play a role in their culture and How does it reflect in their family eating patterns?
Summary
Since 1980, the prevalence of obesity among young children has doubled, and the current rates of childhood overweight and obesity remain a troubling trend and major public health concern (Pelone, et al, 2012). Parent and guardian input was valuable in determining whether proposed activities are culturally appropriate and acceptable, and to obtain a realistic gauge of how often mindful shopping, cooking, and eating activities can be practiced within the home during the school year among our specific target population. For this reason, parent input from focus groups were considered during the development of classroom activities, take-home family activity kits, and parent workshops.
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