Perceptions of Caregivers about Preschool Children’s Nutritional Care and Physical Activity through Tai Lue Traditions: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

The problem of malnutrition among preschool children in northern Thailand is on the upsurge, while engagement in physical activities among these children has decreased. The Tai Lue community has long been recognized for its traditional wisdom and unique culture, which has an effect on the dietary intake and exercise behavior of these children. This study focused on the perceptions among caregivers of preschool children’s nutritional care and the physical activity through Tai Lue traditions. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews during four focus group discussions and five in-depth interviews. Participants were 30 people, including family caregivers of children aged 2-6 years and Tai Lue community leaders. Sample groups were selected by purposive sampling and data were analyzed using a content analysis method.Findings were classified into four themes: 1) accessing healthcare services; 2) caring under Tai Lue traditions; 3) thinking of problems and obstacles; and 4) providing community support. Our findings provide a better understanding of how nutritional care is administered to preschool children living in the Tai Lue community along with the promotion of their physical activities, and provide valuable insights for healthcare providers. Nurses can apply these insights when giving advice about nutrition screening and when designing guidelines for how they care for patients and promote nutrition care and physical activity in preschool children through the culture of the Tai Lue community.