Latino Fathers Promoting Healthy Youth Behaviors

Abstract

Padres Preparados, Ovenes Saludables is an eight-session intervention program for Latino parents, especially fathers, and youth (10-14 years) to improve parenting practices and youth energy balance-related behaviors. University of Minnesota researchers and Latino-serving organizations are collaborating to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the program in Minneapolis/St. Paul and rural Minnesota over five years. An existing parenting skills program is being revised with community partners based on focus group interview results with parents and children (n=60). Parenting skills addressed by the program include parenting styles, communication, discipline/control, supervision, and connection. Focus groups explored parenting practices and youth perspectives on parental supports and cultural traditions. Transcripts were coded and sorted using NVivo software and read for common themes. Findings identified: specific youth and parent behaviors and parenting practices to address (role modeling healthy behaviors, setting healthful expectations, creating a supportive environment), barriers and facilitators for behaviors and parenting practices, and primary considerations for effective community-based programs. Discussions among a father advisory board (n=6 fathers) were held in four 90 minute sessions regarding program priorities and characteristics to increase relevance among fathers. A randomized-controlled trial (n=240 youth, 240 mothers, 240 fathers) is planned for years 2-4 with assessments pre-, immediate post-, and 3 months post-course. Outcomes include youth fruit and vegetable, sugar sweetened beverage, snacks, sweets, fast food and family meal intake, physical activity and screen time. Formative findings are being used to develop and pilot-test the intervention format, materials, and activities to design a culturally-relevant, effective intervention.