Abstract
Parental involvement is an essential component of obesity prevention interventions for children. The present study provides a process and impact evaluation of the family component of SuperFIT. SuperFIT is a comprehensive, integrated intervention approach aiming to improve energy balance-related behaviors (EBRBs) of young children (2–4 years). A mixed methods design combined in-depth interviews with parents (n = 15) and implementers (n = 3) with questionnaire data on nutritional and physical activity-related parenting practices (CFPQ and PPAPP), the physical home environment (EPAO_SR) (n = 41), and intervention appreciation (n = 19). Results were structured using the concepts of reach, adoption, implementation, and perceived impact. Findings indicated that the families reached were mostly those that were already interested in the topic. Participants of the intervention appreciated the information received and the on-the-spot guidance on their child’s behavior. Having fun was considered a success factor within the intervention. Parents expressed the additional need for peer-to-peer discussion. SuperFIT increased awareness and understanding of parents’ own behavior. Parents made no changes in daily life routines or the physical home environment. Translating knowledge and learned strategies into behavior at home has yet to be achieved. To optimize impact, intervention developers should find the right balance between accessibility, content, and intensity of interventions for parents.
Highlights
DesignThe present study applied a process and impact evaluation of SuperFIT using a mixed methods design, combining quantitative and qualitative research among parents and intervention implementers
The present study reports the findings of a process and impact evaluation of the SuperFIT activities targeting the home setting
The family-based component (FC) of SuperFIT reached 47 families, which is about half of the families participating in the research activities of SuperFIT in general
Summary
The present study applied a process and impact evaluation of SuperFIT using a mixed methods design, combining quantitative and qualitative research among parents and intervention implementers. The study focused primarily on relevant processes during intervention activities for families and in the home setting. Effects on child outcomes have been previously assessed [29,30] and will not be reported in the present study
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