Optimal Child Development Research Articles

Improving parenting and healthy nutrition for stunted toddler mothers through community service programs

Stunting is a significant public health problem, especially among toddlers, caused by chronic malnutrition and suboptimal parenting. This community service program aims to overcome these problems by providing relevant education and interventions to mothers of toddlers who experience stunting. This program aims to improve the knowledge and skills of mothers under five in terms of parenting and healthy nutrition, as well as encourage behavioral changes that support optimal child growth and development. This program is carried out through a series of educational activities, including training on balanced nutrition, how to serve nutritious food, and parenting techniques that support children's health. In addition, this activity also involves direct counseling and the provision of educational materials that are easy to understand by mothers of toddlers. The evaluation was carried out to measure the improvement of parenting knowledge, skills, and practices and their impact on the nutritional status of children. Early results showed a significant increase in maternal knowledge about the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy parenting. Practical skills in the presentation of nutritious food have also improved. Further evaluation showed that there was an improvement in the nutritional status of toddlers and a decrease in the prevalence of stunting in the target community. This community service program has succeeded in improving parenting and healthy nutrition knowledge for mothers of stunted toddlers. This intervention is expected to be a model for similar programs in other regions and make a positive contribution to reducing stunting rates more broadly

Caregiving experiences among parents of children with physical and intellectual disabilities: a qualitative systematic review

Introduction: This study aimed to identify caregiver experiences encountered by parents of children with physical and intellectual disabilities. Methods: The study used a systematic review method with the guidelines of Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) and PRISMA 2020. The review focused on parents caring for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. The literature was searched for relevant studies from five electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science (core collection), Cochrane, and Scopus. This systematic review examined 14 articles out of a total of 63,400 articles found. The study used a thematic analysis method to analyze the study. Results: Providing care for children with physical and intellectual disabilities requires addressing a variety of challenges. It is critical to have a comprehensive understanding of these intricacies to ensure that families receive the necessary support and interventions. Our synthesis identified seven themes: (1) gendered and emotional experiences, (2) compromising quality of life: physical and psychological impact, (3) lack of knowledge about disabilities, (4) lack of social support, (5) stigma, (6) uncertain future of the recipient, and (7) unavoidable caregiving responsibility. Conclusions: The results of this study provide recommendations that health professionals and researchers further explore these challenges and strive to build a supportive and inclusive environment that recognizes the unwavering dedication of parents and prioritizes the optimal care and development of children with disabilities. Keywords: children, disability, parent, qualitative systematic review

Seminar Parenting: Mendidik Anak Dengan Keteladanan dan Cinta

The seminar "Educating Children with Exemplary Behavior and Love," held on August 11, 2024, at the Community Center RW 05, Kelurahan Sangiang Jaya, aimed to equip parents with knowledge about the importance of role modeling and affection in child education. The methods used included a presentation by a speaker and a question-and-answer session. The results of the seminar showed that consistent application of role modeling and affection can improve the parent-child relationship and enhance parenting effectiveness. The implications of these results highlight the need for parents to integrate these principles into their daily lives to support optimal child development. Participants explored the importance of being a good example in daily life and how role modeling can shape children’s character and behavior. Additionally, the seminar discussed how to create a loving environment that provides emotional support for children's psychological and social development. The seminar aimed to help parents build healthy and harmonious relationships with their children and prepare them to become empathetic and responsible individuals.

Peran Andragogi dalam Mempersiapkan Orang Tua sebagai Pendidik Anak Usia Dini

Many parents still lack the necessary knowledge and skills to support optimal child development. The purpose of this study is to describe the role of Andragogy, as an adult education approach, offering a solution by customizing learning based on parents' needs and motivations. This approach can overcome three main challenges faced by parents: lack of knowledge about ECD, limited time for training, and low motivation and support in the process of learning and shaping children's spirituality and character. The researcher uses a qualitative method or literature study where the researcher provides solutions to the problems raised by collecting various theories and information from literature materials such as books, dictionaries, journals, Bibles, and online media.

Fitting parameters in children with cochlear implants and severe additional disabilities.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the fitting data of children with Cochlear implants (CI) and severe additional disabilities (CAD) differ compared to children with CI but without additional disabilities (CnonAD). In this retrospective analysis, 76 CI cases (fitted ears) from CAD were included and matched with 76 cases from CnonAD. The subjective set values, such as pulse width (PW), threshold (T) and most comfortable (MC) levels were recorded. Additionally, the response threshold values by means of aided soundfield threshold (AST), the values of the intracochlear electrode impedances, the eCAP thresholds and the daily wearing time by using data logging were recorded and analysed. The T and MC levels for the Medel implants were significantly lower in the sample than in the control group. A similar trend was evident for Cochlear® implants. The sample showed a positive correlation between the eCAP thresholds and the T level and MC level in case of the Cochlear implants. The CAD group showed a significantly higher aided soundfield threshold. In contrast to the CnonAD (0%), there was a total of 18% in the CAD with a reduced daily wearing time. When these were excluded, eCAP thresholds were significantly higher in the CAD group. In addition, there was a trend for eCAP thresholds to be higher if the contralateral ear was not also fitted with a CI. The significantly higher eCAPs in CAD may be explained by different neural survival but also by different fittings and MC levels. The audiuologist's subjectivity must be considered as a potential bias but also as potentially valuable input variable contributing to the variance in the fitting parameters and outcomes. Better fitting of T and MC levels focusing on behavioural and developmental responses may lead to a longer wearing time. To support the audiologist and the fitting process, it is necessary to interpret the response thresholds in the aided soundfield threshold against the background of the medical diagnosis and observations from everyday life should be considered. To ensure optimal development of CAD children according to their individual abilities, a multi-professional, family-centred intervention programme including videoanalyses should be implemented at an early stage, ideally from the decision process for a cochlear implant.

Physical Activity On Early Childhood Brain Growth

Physical activity in early childhood has a significant influence on brain growth and development. This study used a descriptive qualitative research method with a literature study to evaluate the impact of physical activity on various aspects of child development, such as motor skills, emotions, and the immune system. The results showed that regular and routine physical activity can improve motor skills, as well as strengthen children's immune system. In addition, physical activities that are tailored to the age and ability of the child and supported by a conducive environment can help maximize the potential of children's brain growth and development. Therefore, education and support from parents, educators, and communities in promoting active lifestyles for children is essential to support children's optimal health and development.

Transformasi Sosial: Pengabdian Masyarakat dalam Sosialisasi UU Batas Usia Perkawinan di Kecamatan Cilengkrang Kabupaten Bandung

Early marriage is a significant social problem in Indonesia, including in Cilengkrang District, Bandung Regency. In an effort to address this problem, the Indonesian government issued Law Number 16 of 2019 which sets the minimum age of marriage to 19 years for both men and women. Community service in socializing this law in Cilengkrang Sub-district aims to increase community understanding and compliance with the regulation. The program involves various educational activities, such as counseling, group discussions, and training for community leaders and educators. The methods used include direct approaches through village meetings and indirect methods through social and print media. The results showed that the involvement of community leaders and religious leaders was very effective in conveying messages and reducing resistance to legal change. The main challenges faced were changing entrenched mindsets and problems accessing information in remote areas. Recommendations to improve the effectiveness of this program include increasing the involvement of community leaders, optimizing the use of media, continuous training, inter-agency cooperation, periodic evaluation, and a culturally sensitive approach. With the implementation of these recommendations, it is expected that the socialization of the marriage age limit law in Cilengkrang Sub-district can be more effective, reduce the number of early marriages, and create an environment that supports the optimal development of children and improves the overall welfare of the community.

Literature Review: Pemanfaatan Instrumentasi Tes Minat terhadap Layanan Bimbingan dan Konseling

Interest and aptitude tests help in recognizing children's potential early on, so that parents and educators can plan education that is more suitable and supports the optimal development of children's potential. The purpose of this study is to help individuals know that interest and aptitude test instrumentation has a major impact in directing individuals in developing themselves, both in academics and careers. Children who study and work according to their interests tend to be more motivated, happy and accomplished. With a clear understanding of interests and aptitudes, children can make better decisions regarding future education, major and career choices. In this study we used the Literature Review method by collecting several sources. The results and discussion of the literature review discussion regarding interest tests, interest inventories, and Android-based psychological test applications in guidance and counseling in schools show that these tools are very important to help students determine educational and career paths according to their interests and talents. Interest tests help reduce uncertainty in career decision-making, improve the fit between individuals and jobs or study programs, and expand understanding of the psychological tendencies underlying their choices.

Assessment of Knowledge and Utilization of Prefabricated Band and Loop Space Maintainers in Primary Dentition Among Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study.

Preserving primary dentition is essential for maintaining optimal oral health and development in children. Premature loss of primary teeth due to caries, infection, crowding, or trauma can necessitate orthodontic intervention and lead to various complications. Space maintainers are critical for preserving arch space until the eruption of permanent teeth, thereby preventing issues such as ectopic eruption, crowding, and malocclusion. Despite their advantages, prefabricated space maintainers (PSMs) are underutilized. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Indian dentists regarding PSMs in primary teeth. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among 100 dental practitioners in Chennai. A 10-item self-administered questionnaire, developed based on a comprehensive literature review and expert consultations, assessed demographics, knowledge of PSM indications and techniques, current practices, perceived barriers, and preferences for continuing education. The questionnaire's reliability was confirmed with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.85. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies andpercentages, were used to summarize the participants' demographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and current practices related to PSMs. Of the 100 respondents, 86 (86%) were males and 14 (14%) were females. Only 19 (19%) reported using PSMs, while 36 (36%) used conventional space maintainers. A significant proportion (42 (42%)) of the respondents held a master's degree in dental surgery, yet only 11 (11%) had participated in Continuing Dental Education (CDE) programs on space maintainers. The perceived benefit of PSMs being a single appointment procedure was acknowledged by 82 (82%) of the respondents, whereas 76 (76%) participants identified cost as a major drawback. Notably, 45 (45%) practitioners did not consider PSMs necessary. This survey highlights notable obstacles in the adoption of PSMs among Indian dentists, emphasizing the need for focused educational initiatives. Improving knowledge and practices related to PSMs can enhance pediatric dental care and oral health outcomes in India.

Relation between binocular vision alteration and prehension movements in children: a scoping review.

To investigate, map, and synthesize evidence regarding the correlation between changes in binocular vision and fine motor skills among children. We conducted a scoping review of existing evidence, following the guidelines and checklist outlined in "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - Scoping Reviews" (PRISMAScR). Sixteen papers were systematically included in our scoping review. A predominant focus was placed on assessing the impact of strabismus on motor skills. Most of the studies used motor test batteries for comprehensive analysis, while the remaining employed methodologies, such as questionnaires or laboratory-based tests. Vision stands as a pivotal perceptual modality essential for the optimal development of children. Alterations in visual acuity can significantly affect fine motor skills. Pediatric ophthalmology and orthoptics frequently encounter binocular vision disorders, such as amblyopia and strabismus. Our finding showed that impaired binocular vision affects fine motor skills.

Peran Standar Pengelolaan PAUD dalam Meningkatkan Perkembangan Sosial Anak Usia Dini

This research discusses the role of preschool management standards in improving early childhood social development in Indonesia. preschool plays a crucial role in children's development, with curriculum, teaching methods, infrastructure, and parental and community involvement being key elements in ensuring quality education. Good preschool management standards can create a conducive learning environment, encourage healthy social interactions, and support the development of children's social skills. The research uses the literature study method by collecting data from various relevant sources such as books, scientific journals, articles and official documents. The analysis shows that Total Quality Management (TQM) indicators, such as leadership, commitment, customer focus, data measurement and analysis, and continuous improvement, can be applied in preschool management to improve service quality. Although there are implementation constraints, such as uneven quality of preschool and lack of a comprehensive assessment system, this study provides recommendations to improve access to educational resources, develop an objective assessment system, and increase parental and community involvement. With collaborative efforts from various parties, the quality of early childhood education in Indonesia can be improved, ultimately supporting children's optimal social development.

Trait mindfulness during pregnancy and maternal-infant bonding: Longitudinal associations with infant temperament and social-emotional development

Maternal love and caregiving are pillars for optimal child development and may affect infant outcomes from pregnancy onwards. The present study aimed to examine whether maternal trait mindfulness during pregnancy and pre- and postnatal maternal-infant bonding were associated with maternal perceptions of infant temperament and social-emotional development. In total, 408 Dutch women (Mage = 31.33, SD = 3.59) participated in a prospective perinatal cohort study and completed questionnaires on trait mindfulness, prenatal bonding, postnatal bonding, infant temperament, and infant social-emotional development at 20 and 28 weeks of gestation, and 10 weeks, 6 and 12 months postpartum, respectively. Path analyses demonstrated that higher levels of the trait mindfulness facet non-judging (i.e., refraining from judgments about own feelings and thoughts) were associated with more pre- and postnatal maternal bonding and fewer social-emotional problems as perceived by the mother. Adopting an accepting and non-judgmental attitude may promote positive feelings of bonding and benefit the infant in terms of having fewer social-emotional problems in the first year of life. Mindfulness interventions may be offered to pregnant women in order to enhance maternal bonding and improve infant outcomes after birth.

Behind Prison Walls: Critical Overview of the Mental Health Trajectories of Children Living With Incarcerated Mothers.

Insufficient resources have been identified as a significant factor contributing to delayed development across all domains for children living with their incarcerated mothers. Often lacking extended family support, these children experience environments resembling confinement, devoid of essential cognitive, social, and emotional stimuli crucial for their development. This deprivation can result in substantial educational setbacks and hinder their social integration. This review aims to examine the impact of the prison environment on the development of children residing with their incarcerated mothers.Current research underscores a notable scarcity of comprehensive data on the developmental paths of these children. Some studies suggest that prison nurseries may cultivate positive intergenerational attachments, potentially mitigating the typically low resilience observed in cases of maternal separation. However, while lower-order cognitive functions may not exhibit significant delays, the development of higher-order thinking skills presents more considerable challenges.Addressing the developmental risks faced by children in prison settings is critical, given their heightened vulnerability to systemic neglect. Therefore, prioritizing optimal child development is essential to ensure these children achieve their milestones.

PENINGKATAN BERAT BADAN BAYI MELALUI KELAS PIJAT UNTUK USIA 1-6 BULAN: PROGRAM PENGABDIAN MASYARAKAT

Increasing infant weight is an important indicator of optimal growth and development. One effective method to achieve this is through baby massage, which can provide both physical and psychological stimulation for the infant. This community service activity aims to increase the weight of infants aged 1-6 months through baby massage classes conducted at Posyandu Perumahan Griya Intan Asri, Mrican, Kota Kediri. The program involved 10 mothers with infants aged 1-6 months as participants. The methods used included socialization, education, and training in baby massage techniques by competent healthcare professionals. The training provided practical guidance on safe and effective baby massage techniques to enhance infant weight and well-being, as well as to strengthen the bond between mother and child. The results of the program showed that out of the 10 infants who participated, 8 infants (80%) experienced weight gain after the baby massage sessions, while 2 infants (20%) maintained their weight. None of the infants experienced weight loss. These results indicate that baby massage classes have a significant impact on increasing infant weight, which is a crucial indicator for their optimal growth and development. Therefore, this baby massage class program can be considered effective in improving both the physical and psychological health of infants and strengthening the role of mothers in caregiving to support their children's optimal growth and development

Comprehensive Analysis of Breastfeeding's Influence on Child Health Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Breastfeeding is recognized as a crucial determinant of child health and development, yet its multifaceted effects remain underexplored in many contexts. This cross-sectional study investigates the association between breastfeeding practices and various health and developmental outcomes in infants and young children, focusing on exclusive breastfeeding, partial breastfeeding, and formula feeding. Done at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Pakistan, the research aims to provide comprehensive insights into the nuanced impacts of breastfeeding on child well-being. Objectives This study aims to assess the association between breastfeeding duration and practices with the incidence of infectious diseases in infants and young children. It investigates the relationship between different breastfeeding practices: exclusive breastfeeding, partial breastfeeding, and formula feeding and cognitive development outcomes in early childhood. Additionally, the study evaluates the role of breastfeeding in the development of motor skills in infants and young children. Methodology A cohort of 390 participants, aged one month to three years, participated in the study. Data collection encompassed parental interviews, clinical assessments using standardized tools such as the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, and reviews of medical records. Statistical analyses, including frequency analysis and chi-square tests, were conducted to elucidate the relationships between breastfeeding practices and health outcomes. Results Exclusive breastfeeding exhibited a significantly lower incidence of infectious diseases compared to partial breastfeeding and formula feeding. Specifically, among exclusively breastfed children, incidences of colds, pneumonia, and diarrhea were 32%, 39.7%, and 40%, respectively. These rates were notably higher in partially breastfed and formula-fed children. Cognitive development outcomes also varied significantly across feeding groups. Exclusively breastfed children demonstrated superior cognitive performance, with 34.2% rated above average, compared to only 6.5% in the formula-fed group. Additionally, the prevalence of developmental delays was lowest among exclusively breastfed children (14.1%), contrasting with 62.8% in the partial breastfeeding group and 77.0% in the formula-feeding group. Conclusions The study underscores the pivotal role of exclusive breastfeeding in promoting optimal child health and development. Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with significantly reduced incidences of infectious diseases, superior cognitive development outcomes, and a lower prevalence of developmental delays. These findings highlight the importance of supportive interventions and policies aimed at encouraging exclusive breastfeeding practices, ultimately enhancing child well-being and developmental trajectories.

Minimum acceptable diet and associated factors among 6–23 months old children enrolled in outpatient therapeutic program in the Tulla district, Sidama region, Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundImproving the minimum acceptable diet (MAD) is essential for ensuring optimal growth and development of children, as well as preventing malnutrition and its consequences. Previous studies in Ethiopia have focused on the magnitude and determinants of a minimum acceptable diet. However, much emphasis was not given to minimum acceptable diet and its associated factors among 6–23 months old children enrolled in Outpatient therapeutic programs (OTP), particularly, in the study area. This study determines the minimum acceptable diet and associated factors among 6–23-month-old children enrolled in OTP.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 346 randomly selected mothers with children aged 6–23 months who were admitted to the OTP. The data were collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. The data were entered, cleaned, coded into Epidata version 4.6, and exported to SPSS version 26 for further analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the determinants of MAD.ResultsThe overall prevalence of minimum Acceptable diet among children aged 6–23 months enrolled to OTP was 14.5% (95% CI: 12.02-19%). The odds of MAD were 1.9 times higher among children aged 18–23 months compared to children aged 6–11 months (AOR = 1.9, 95% CI ((1.2 3.9). The odds of MAD were 2.9times higher in children whose mothers had a good knowledge on recommended feeding (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI (1.2, 6.35). Mothers who had no formal education were 81% less likely to provide minimum acceptable diets for their children compared to their counterpart.(AOR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.24, 4.19).ConclusionThe practice of a minimum acceptable diet is inadequate. Nutrition education should be emphasized to improve the mothers’ nutrition knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations, to support mothers in overcoming barriers to feeding their children with adequate diets, and to foster complementary feeding practices for malnourished children.

Hubungan Pengetahuan Dan Sikap Ibu Dengan Pemberian Makanan Pendamping Asi (MP -ASI ) Pada Anak Usia 6 - 24 Bulan Di PBM Susi Rini Safitri Kab.Simalungun Tahun 2023

Infancy between the ages of 6-24 months is a golden age for child growth and development. This period is a good opportunity for parents to strive for optimal child growth and development. One effort that parents can make to achieve this is through good and correct parenting patterns given to children. This study aims to determine the Relationship between Mother's Knowledge and Attitudes with the Provision of Complementary Foods (MP-ASI) to Children Aged 6-24 Months at PBM Susi Rini Safitri, Simalungun Regency in 2023. This type of research is an analytical survey study with a cross-sectional method approach. The population is all mothers who have children aged 6-24 months as many as 42 people. The number of samples used was 42 people obtained using the Total sampling technique. The data analysis technique used chi square. the results obtained in this study are from 42 respondents, there is a relationship between maternal attitudes and the Provision of Complementary Food for Breast Milk (MP-ASI) in Children Aged 6-24 Months shows that the p value = 0.000 <0.05. there is a relationship between maternal knowledge and the Provision of Complementary Food for Breast Milk (MP-ASI) in Children Aged 6-24 Months shows that the p value = 0.012 <0.05. It is recommended for Health Workers to increase counseling related to the Occurrence of Anemia in Pregnant Women.

Optimizing Child Development Given Roscoe Pound's Social Interest Theory (Study at Alif Islamic Daycare)

Optimizing Child Development Given Roscoe Pound's Social Interest Theory (Study at Alif Islamic Daycare)

Transformasi Sosial: Pengabdian Masyarakat dalam Sosialisasi UU Batas Usia Perkawinan di Kecamatan Cilengkrang Kabupaten Bandung

Early marriage is a significant social problem in Indonesia, including in Cilengkrang District, Bandung Regency. In an effort to address this problem, the Indonesian government issued Law Number 16 of 2019 which sets the minimum age of marriage to 19 years for both men and women. Community service in socializing this law in Cilengkrang Sub-district aims to increase community understanding and compliance with the regulation. The program involves various educational activities, such as counseling, group discussions, and training for community leaders and educators. The methods used include direct approaches through village meetings and indirect methods through social and print media. The results showed that the involvement of community leaders and religious leaders was very effective in conveying messages and reducing resistance to legal change. The main challenges faced were changing entrenched mindsets and problems accessing information in remote areas. Recommendations to improve the effectiveness of this program include increasing the involvement of community leaders, optimizing the use of media, continuous training, inter-agency cooperation, periodic evaluation, and a culturally sensitive approach. With the implementation of these recommendations, it is expected that the socialization of the marriage age limit law in Cilengkrang Sub-district can be more effective, reduce the number of early marriages, and create an environment that supports the optimal development of children and improves the overall welfare of the community.

Risk factors of child malnutrition under 5 years: Evidence from Pakistan using the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure

ObjectivesChild malnutrition is a very serious health issue globally, particularly in emerging countries. Among South Asian countries, Pakistan has been observed to have a high prevalence of child malnutrition. In spite of the implementation of many health strategies and preventive measures for vulnerable populations, this issue is still unresolved and needs further investigation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of various social-, maternal-, and child-level factors considered to be responsible for nutritional health disparities among children. MethodsAn assessment method of malnutrition, i.e., Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF), was used to detect the prevalence of malnutrition among children under 5 years of age in Pakistan in order to present a comprehensive view that was lacking conventional indices of malnutrition. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to assess the link between malnutrition and socioeconomic, maternal, and child attributes based on CIAF data compiled from weight-for-height, weight-for-age, and height-for-age Z-scores using data from the Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (2017–2018). ResultsA total of 4224 children under 5 years of age were included in the analysis. Approximately half of the children (45.34%) comprised anthropometric failures for the overall prevalence of undernutrition based on CIAF. The results of this study revealed that the leading determinant associated with CIAF was the child's age in months, small birth size, lack of breastfeeding, lack of maternal education, poor economic status of the household, and poor-quality water sources. The factors associated with stunting comprised the child's age in months, small child birth size, underweight maternal body mass index, and uneducated mothers. Only one factor—low household economic profile—was significantly associated with waste. Sindh, Baluchistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces had a higher risk of having wasted children. On the other hand, children aged 25-36 months had higher, small child birth size, underweight maternal BMI, un-educated mother, un-educated father, low economic profile of household experiencing of being underweight. ConclusionsThe findings of this study reinforce the significance of maternal health, parental education, and household economic profile in the prevention of malnutrition within young children of adequate birth size, as well as better overall health care up to adolescence in Pakistan. Well-nourished individuals are a valuable human resource and a requirement for a nation's progress and prosperity. In emerging nations such evidence-based policies are crucial for fostering children's optimal physical and mental development to ensure a healthier future generation. Therefore, the execution of national health policies aimed at the improvement of maternal and societal factors could result in improved nutrition levels among children below 5 years of age in Pakistan.