Latino Fathers Promoting Healthy Youth Behaviors

Abstract

Objective Padres Preparados, Jovenes Saludables is a family-skills intervention for immigrant Latino fathers and youth (10-14 years) to improve youth energy balance-related behaviors and positive parenting practices. Description A randomized-controlled trial (n = 240 youth, 240 fathers, half in an intervention and half in a delayed-intervention control group) is being conducted in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area at five community sites from 2017 – 2020 based on a multi-site staggered implementation schedule. Each of the eight program sessions follows an experiential learning cycle, including activities for families to prepare food and be physically active together, for parents to strengthen positive parenting practices (setting expectations, availability, modeling), and for parents and children to improve diet and physical activity outcomes. The program for the delayed-intervention control group is being delivered via a blended approach with three sessions via a mobile app and five sessions in person with accompanying evaluation procedures. Evaluation Assessments are being made in both arms at baseline and post-program and follow-up (three months post-program). Expected outcomes include improved youth intake of fruits and vegetables (FV), sugary drinks (SSBs), salty snacks/sweets, fast food, physical activity and screen time and related parenting practices. Baseline data from all current participants were examined for associations between youth-reported EBRB-specific parenting practices, father socio-demographic characteristics and family meal frequency. Few significant associations were noted between parenting practices and father socio-demographic characteristics; however, FV and fast food parenting practices were positively associated with family meal frequency and father involvement in meal preparation. Interim data analysis from ∼100 fathers and youth showed that father-reported parenting practices were improved from pre- to post-program for setting expectations for FV, SSBs and physical activity and modeling regarding fruit, fast food and screen time behaviors. Father-reported intakes of FV and SSBs were improved. Conclusion and Implications Interim analysis showed positive findings regarding improvements in father-reported parenting practices and behaviors. Full data collection and analysis are expected to be completed in two years. Funding 2016-68001-24921.