Practical Workshops Research Articles

Workshops: Enhancing communication for nursing students with patients with hearing disabilities

Abstract Background Nursing students need guidance on effective communication strategies for interacting with patients with hearing disabilities, emphasizing the importance of addressing this gap in their education as future healthcare professionals. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among nursing students at seven institutions before and after workshops led by guides with hearing disabilities from a non-profit organization Ma’agalei Shema and funded by the National Insurance Institute. Data was collected from 2023 to March 2024 and analyzed using SPSS software. Results 279 participants completed the survey before the workshops. and 136 responding afterward. Almost 80% were female. Before the workshops, 68.46% of students expected to gain communication tools for patients with hearing disabilities. About one-third believed the healthcare system offers accessible treatment to these patients, while only 22.22% foresaw no barriers. One-third reported no clinical contact with such patients. Among those who did, lip-reading (25.53%), writing (17.73%), assistance from family members (15.6%), and sign language (9.22%) were commonly used. Only 2.84% used professional sign language interpreters, and 20.57% reported never meeting a patient with hearing disabilities (8% reported “other”). Post-workshop surveys showed that around 82.48% of participants felt the workshops would significantly enhance their communication skills with such patients, with only 5.11% reporting a lack of practical tools received. Conclusions Practical workshops can significantly enhance communication skills and improve patient care. This study underscores the potential impact of minor adjustments in communication strategies on patient care, such as increasing the use of professional interpreters. Main messages: Providing training to nursing students in effective communication with these patients can streamline interactions, diminish reliance on family intermediaries, and enhance medical care. Key messages • Nursing students need guidance on communicating with patients with hearing disabilities to improve future healthcare interactions. • Practical workshops enhance communication skills, stressing the importance of minor adjustments for better patient care.

10.K. Skills building seminar: Practical and methodological guidance for conducting online qualitative surveys in public health

Abstract Online qualitative surveys are surveys which prioritise qualitative (open text) questions in data collection. Researchers have stated that these types surveys have rich potential for qualitative researchers. They are able to collect rapid insights into new or emerging areas of health, and are an effective way of reaching populations who may not otherwise engage in qualitative interview studies or focus groups. Although these types of surveys are increasingly used by public health and health promotion researchers, there is very limited discussion in the research literature to guide researchers about the practical and methodological aspects of such surveys. This creates some challenges for qualitative researchers - as well as funders, and peer reviewers - in assessing the rigour and robustness of these studies. Using data from a range of online qualitative surveys that we have conducted with youth and adults relating to gambling, alcohol, climate change, and the commercial determinants of health, we describe the processes associated with developing, implementing, interpreting, and writing up online qualitative survey data. In this practical and interactive multimedia workshop and developing on the work of Braun, Clarke and colleagues, with a focus on Big Q interpretivist qualitative approaches. We will provide: 1. Practical examples, and lessons learned from our own studies about survey design, question development, the importance of rigorous piloting strategies, the use of novel techniques to prompt detailed responses from participants, and the decisions that are made about data cleaning. 2. Examples of the types of responses that can be expected in different types of surveys, and how decisions are made about the quality of responses to questions. 3. Guidance about how to analyse the volume of qualitative data that is generated from such surveys, including developing robust mechanisms to ensure trustworthiness of decision making and data interpretation. 4. Tips based on our role as journal editors about how to present qualitative survey data, and how to respond to challenging reviewer comments. Participants will be provided with a booklet containing survey templates, question examples, tips and examples of how to respond to reviewer comments. Key messages • Online qualitative surveys have rich potential for collecting insights about emerging public health issues. • This workshop will provide practical and methodological guidance for researchers who are interested in using these surveys. Speakers/Panelists Hannah Pitt Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Simone McCarthy Deakin University, Armadale, Australia Samantha Thomas Deakin University, Geelong, Australia

Neurosurgical skills conference for medical students: A before and after study

Background: Undergraduate conferences may improve exposure to neurosurgery among medical students. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of a neurosurgical skills conference on medical students’ comprehension and perceptions of the specialty. Methods: A before-and-after (BA) study design was employed to assess the effects of a conference that integrated presentations with hands-on sessions. Practical workshops covered craniotomy, spinal fixation, surface anatomy, intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, basic surgical skills, and microsurgical simulation. Pre-conference and post-conference surveys, utilizing Likert scales, gauged participants’ attitudes, prior neurosurgical exposure, and understanding of neurosurgical skills. Statistical analysis was conducted on dichotomized responses. Results: Thirty-one participants completed both surveys, with the majority being 1st and 2nd-year medical students. Among the participants, 58.1% were female, and 77.4% identified with BAME ethnicities. Following the conference, there was a notable increase in comprehension regarding neurosurgical careers (from 58.1% to 96.8%, P < 0.001) and training criteria (from 22.6% to 93.5%, P < 0.001). The conference enhanced knowledge of indications for craniotomy (P < 0.001), ICP monitoring (P < 0.001), and spinal fixation (P < 0.001). Participants reported improved understanding of the steps involved in craniotomy (P < 0.001), familiarity with basic cranial surgical surface anatomy (P < 0.001), and confidence in performing basic surgical instrument ties (P < 0.001). Although interest in pursuing a career in neurosurgery remained high (from 87.1% to 90.3%, P = 1.000), a majority of participants, both BA the conference, expressed concerns about the impact on personal life (from 58.1% to 64.5%, P = 0.774). Conclusion: This study underscores the role of undergraduate mixed-method conferences in augmenting understanding of neurosurgery and nurturing early interest.

Mediterranean Diet-Based Sustainable Healthy Diet and Multicomponent Training Combined Intervention Effect on Body Composition, Anthropometry, and Physical Fitness in Healthy Aging

Background: Diet and exercise interventions have been associated with improved body composition and physical fitness. However, evidence regarding their combined effects in older adults is scarce. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a combined 12-week Mediterranean diet-based sustainable healthy diet (SHD) and multicomponent training (MT) intervention on body composition, anthropometry, and physical fitness in older adults. Methods: Diet intervention groups received a weekly SHD food supply and four sessions, including a SHD culinary practical workshop. The exercise program included MT 50 min group session, three times a week, on non-consecutive days. Body composition and physical fitness variables were assessed through dual X-ray absorptiometry, anthropometric measurements, and senior fitness tests. Repeated measures ANOVA, with terms for group, time, and interaction, was performed. Results: Our results showed that a combined intervention significantly lowered BMI and total fat. Also, significant differences between assessments in all physical fitness tests, except for aerobic endurance, were observed. Adjusted models show significant differences in BMI (p = 0.049) and WHR (p = 0.037) between groups and in total fat (p = 0.030) for the interaction term. Body strength (p < 0.001), balance tests (p < 0.001), and aerobic endurance (p = 0.005) had significant differences amongst groups. Considering the interaction term, differences were observed for upper body strength (p = 0.046) and flexibility tests (p = 0.004 sit and reach, p = 0.048 back scratch). Conclusions: Our intervention study demonstrates the potential of implementing healthy lifestyle and sustainable models to promote healthy and active aging.

Feasibility of a complex psychosocial intervention for families with parental cancer: acceptability, suitability, implementability, and perceived support

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the feasibility of a comprehensive psychosocial intervention for families coping with parental cancer.MethodsA quasi-experimental trial with intervention and control group, employing a mixed-methods approach, was conducted. A total of 472 families affected by parental cancer participated. The feasibility of the intervention was evaluated based on study monitoring measures (on-site visits, team supervision meeting observations, case conference observations, best practice workshops, coordinating information exchange between intervention sites, and reviewing intervention documentation), process evaluation (semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion) and survey data. Data analysis involved thematic coding and descriptive statistics.ResultsThe intervention was well-received by the participating families, with a high degree of acceptance observed. The feasibility of the intervention was found to be associated with specific dynamics within each family system and the motivation of the family members. The success of the intervention was described as dependent on the family-centered arrangement of the encounters, including factors such as frequency, duration, and mode, which greatly influenced its overall acceptability.ConclusionThe family-scout intervention demonstrates its feasibility as an effective intervention to reduce the burden experienced by families coping with parental cancer. Psychosocial oncology services should continue to develop and implement family-centered interventions to offer support to families during their cancer journey.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04186923. Retrospectively registered on 4 December 2019.

The lack of STEM vocations and gender gap in secondary education students

The gender gap in STEM vocations among high school students still remains a troubling reality. Several studies indicate that students in general have less interest in science and technology subjects, and this disparity is even more distinguishable among female students. In fact, the aforementioned gender gap in STEM begins to manifest itself at an early age and worsens during adolescence. Some of the multiple causes include cultural factors, gender stereotypes, and lack of female role models. Therefore, it is essential to promote gender equality and encourage inclusion and diversity in the educational environment as a key measure to reduce the gap. This is why in this study comprehensive research was carried out to analyse the factors that contribute to the gender gap in STEM careers. To this end, a survey was conducted of approximately 1,000 secondary education students from a range of centres in the Canary Islands. The survey yielded insights into the direct influence of close references on students and the lack of female role models. This allowed the identification of effective measures to increase women’s participation in these fields. One of the suggested solutions is the implementation of practical workshops, in which female figures play a key role. These workshops are used to demonstrate to students that there are numerous role models nearby who can motivate and encourage them to explore and develop their interest in the field of science and technology. By providing said opportunities and role models, our aim is to build their confidence and provide them with the necessary tools to take advantage of all the opportunities that the STEM field has to offer.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SATELLITE SYSTEMS AND NAVIGATION IN STEAM EDUCATION

The research focuses on the relevance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in modern society, education, and the role of satellite systems. The STEAM approach combines technical and creative skills to provide students with a holistic education that encourages innovative problem-solving and critical thinking. Understanding the workings of geostationary satellites and navigation systems, vital to many modern technologies, is essential for developing the competencies students need in the digital world. An engineering approach to understanding the concepts and content we use in our everyday lives is pointed out. The research emphasizes that integrating these topics into the educational process promotes interdisciplinary integration of physics, mathematics, geography and informatics knowledge and enhances students' digital competencies. Using innovative pedagogical approaches such as simulations, project work, and practical workshops, teaching complex subjects such as satellite systems effectively while contributing to the development of creativity and critical thinking is possible. This approach ensures that the education system effectively prepares young people for life in a technologically advanced and globalized society, where science and technology are becoming increasingly important. Keywords: EGNOS, navigation, satellite systems, STEAM

Pencapaian Diferensiasi Produk Melalui Strategi Inovasi dan Kreativitas Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in the Indonesian economy, but often face challenges such as limited access to technology, quality of human resources, and marketing. This community service activity aims to help MSMEs achieve product differentiation through innovation and creativity strategies. The methods used include theoretical training and practical workshops. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' knowledge and skills in developing innovative products and creative marketing strategies. Evaluation through questionnaires and interviews showed participant satisfaction and increased sales after implementing new strategies. Challenges faced included limited resources and time, which were overcome through collaboration with related institutions and follow-up programs. Thus, this activity succeeded in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs in local and international markets, as well as contributing to the national economy. The sustainability of the program is pursued through ongoing mentoring programs and the formation of MSME innovation communities. These results show that innovation and creativity strategies can be an effective solution to overcome the challenges faced by MSMEs and improve community welfare.

Experimental Study on the Management of Motorcycle Engineering Practice Workshops at SMKN 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMKN 1 Simpangkatis in Relation to Student Academic Achievement

The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors involved in managing practical workshops, including workshop space management, equipment management, and occupational health and safety (K3), in relation to student achievement in motorcycle engineering workshops at SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis. This research is an ex-post facto study using a correlational approach. The population consists of all 11th-grade students at SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis, totaling 120 students. The sample size, calculated using the Slovin formula with a 10% margin of error, resulted in 72 respondents. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and tests, supported by Google Forms. The prerequisites for this research involved tests for normality, linearity, and multicollinearity. Hypotheses were tested using simple and multiple regression analyses. The results showed that workshop space management has a positive and significant impact on student achievement. Likewise, equipment management and K3 were found to have a positive and significant influence on student achievement. Overall, workshop management positively and significantly affects student performance at both SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis

대학 전공트랙제 기반 융합전공자의 전공적응 지원을 위한 비교과 교육요구 분석: H대학의 제2트랙을 중심으로

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the major adjustment and educational needs of students in convergence majors, and to suggest directions for the operation of educational programs aimed at major adjustment. Methods This study surveyed 83 students in convergence majors at H-University in Seoul, focusing on their major satisfaction, major adjustment, and educational needs for their major. For data analysis, the mean and standard deviation were calculated using the SPSS 22.0 statistical program. In addition, an independent sample t-test and univariate analysis of variance were conducted to confirm differences between groups. Results The results showed that, first, the students in convergence majors were generally satisfied with their major. second, major adjustment to the major track was high, satisfaction with course selection and goal orientation was high, but career decision confidence and support from the academic environment was relatively low. Third, in terms of extra-curricular requirements for adapting to the second major, students would like to have one to two hours of lectures, practical workshops and mentoring during the semester from industry or professional lecturers directly related to the second major. Conclusions The study will contribute to establishing a foundation for improving both curricular and extracurricular offerings for convergence major students.

PENYULUHAN INOVASI PACKAGING DAN BRANDING PADA UMKM SEBAGAI UPAYA MENINGKATKAN PEMASARAN DAN NILAI JUAL LAPIS KETAN

This community service activity aims to enhance the marketing and sales value of Lapis Ketan products for MSMEs in Tanjung Manis Village through innovation in packaging and branding. The background of this activity is the challenge faced by MSMEs in marketing their products due to a lack of innovative packaging and effective branding strategies. To address this issue, this activity is designed to provide education and training to MSME actors on attractive packaging design techniques and branding strategies that align with the characteristics of the product and market. The implementation methods include a series of in-depth counseling sessions, practical workshops on packaging design, and intensive mentoring in the application of branding strategies. The results of this activity show a significant improvement in the understanding and skills of MSME actors regarding packaging and branding innovations. The impact of this training is reflected in the creation of more innovative packaging and more appropriate branding strategies, increased competitiveness of Lapis Ketan products in the market, increased sales, and strengthened brand awareness among consumers.

Implementing Citizen Science Activities in Baltic University Libraries: On the Road to a Citizen Science Hub

The current article brings to the fore key results of the implementation of citizen science (CS) practices at universities and their libraries by focusing on five Baltic universities. It observes the improvement of skills and knowledge in the participating organisations. It examines the need and readiness for the institutional change necessary for implementing CS practices in the Baltics and the ways the participating organisations have improved in the field of CS during the LibOCS project (University libraries strengthening the academia-society connection through citizen science in the Baltics, 2022–2024). The study aims to determine to what extent the framework of the current project and the implementation of the BESPOC model (Broad Engagement in Science, Point of Contact) included in the project could act as a blueprint for other organisations wanting to implement institutional and policy changes to advance in the field of CS. These kinds of hubs or knowledge centres have already been established in some Central and Western European countries and it is necessary to create that kind of support system in the Baltic universities. The article is based on the interviews, surveys, and workshops held on the topics of CS advocacy and implementation of the BESPOC model at Baltic universities led by five university libraries (referred to here as LibOCS HEIs): Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), University of Tartu (UT), University of Latvia (UL), Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), and Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). The article introduces the core aspects of the LibOCS project, describes the starting point of the participating organisations, and librarians, their level of knowledge about CS and its practices, and proceeds with the changes that took place during the five major project stages and their outputs. The article presents the knowledge growth of the participants, the tools and training materials created for librarians, the practical consultations and workshops that led to the implementation process of the BESPOC model. The more knowledgeable the librarians are, the easier it is to implement CS-related services and establish a central hub. As a result of the project, a positive shift towards the openness to CS activities and its support systems has been identified within participating libraries, and some elements of a single point of contact model are already in development. However, to fully adopt that approach, universities have to include CS in their strategies and allocate resources, entrusting the leader of the process with the work of creating a CS hub.

Designing, delivering and evaluating a specialty specific quality improvement course for the rheumatology multidisciplinary team

Abstract Objectives Quality improvement (QI) methodology aims to drive improvement in healthcare using a systematic approach. QI is an integral part of healthcare professional training curricula. However, many members of the rheumatology community have not accessed formal QI methodology training, including those expected to supervise QI activity. The BSR QI practical methodology workshop was created to address this knowledge gap in a specialty-specific course designed and delivered by, and for, the multidisciplinary team. Methods Course design centred on the Institute for Healthcare Improvement approach, ‘Model for improvement’, adapting materials from the well-established Trainees Improving Patient Safety through QI (TIPSQI) initiative. The course was delivered online (2021) and face-to-face (2022). Kolbs’ four stage experiential learning cycle informed course design utilising rheumatology-specific cases and facilitated breakout rooms to teach QI tools. Kirkpatrick’s four-stage model was used to design the course evaluation. Data from surveys completed before, immediately after, and six months’ following the courses were used to evaluate the course. Results Baseline knowledge of specific QI tools was limited. Post course evaluation demonstrated increased confidence to use and teach tools. Sustained confidence to contribute to and lead QI activity was reported. Course satisfaction was high; 100% of delegates would recommend the course to colleagues. Conclusion This successful, rheumatology specific QI course led to improved delegate knowledge of QI methodology and confidence in leading and teaching QI initiatives. It has contributed to building momentum in a growing rheumatology QI community of practice and to embedding a sustainable culture of improvement across the rheumatology community.

Place-Based Perspectives on Understanding the Value of Sustainable Heritage-Inspired Arts and Crafts in Jordan

This article highlights the challenges of rigorously evaluating and meaningfully communicating the socio-economic impacts of arts and crafts in northern Jordan. This article aims to identify and analyse the challenges confronting place-based arts and crafts industries in Jordan and propose valid policies and practices to address these challenges. The methodology employed involved a comprehensive review of the existing literature to elucidate the challenges faced by heritage-based artisans, and we propose several policies aimed at promoting and safeguarding the arts and crafts heritage. The findings supporting this research were derived from a series of practical workshops and focus group interviews conducted in 2022. This article also presents empirical evidence to highlight the identified challenges. It emphasises the importance of the proposed policy recommendations for the Jordanian sector, providing the audience with a sense of empowerment and an understanding of the potential solutions. This work could offer insights into how local communities innovatively leverage creative capacities, create localised impact, and address local challenges. We argue that the value of arts and crafts is better understood locally to provide impactful experiences based on community-led and community-generated creativity and flexibility. A creative participatory approach is used to create contemporary art designs and train young people on artistic and craft-making skills, application, and production as a credible precedent and best practice for developing creative cultural “enterprises” in Jordan.

“I’d rather do that (Knee Control) than be injured and not able to play”: a qualitative study on youth floorball players’ and coaches’ perspectives of how to overcome barriers for injury prevention exercise programme use

This study explored youth floorball players’ and coaches’ perspectives on using the injury prevention exercise programmes (IPEPs) Knee Control or Knee Control+ (Knee Control programmes) and how to overcome barriers...

Assessing and Enhancing Core Competencies in Vocational Education: A Case Study of Senior Students at Guangxi Police College, China

This study evaluates the core competencies of senior students at Guangxi Police College within the framework of higher vocational education and provides guidelines for enhancing these skills. A Likert 5-Point Scale questionnaire based on Lin Chongde’s 2017 framework assessed these competencies among 155 students. A statistical study of the data, concentrating on mean values and standard deviations, indicated variable levels of competence across six dimensions: moral awareness, social responsibility, cultural comprehension, critical thinking, language competency, and aesthetic appreciation. They demonstrated high levels of ethical awareness, social responsibility, cultural understanding, critical thinking, and aesthetic appreciation, while language abilities were graded as medium, indicating a need for targeted improvement. Recommendations include incorporating interactive language activities and industry-specific training, targeting critical thinking through case studies and debate clubs, broadening cultural understanding through international exposure, cultivating aesthetic appreciation through art classes, and increasing social responsibility through community service and internships. Integrating ethics education across all disciplines and practical ethical dilemma workshops were suggested to promote moral awareness. This study presents a complete examination of basic abilities in a vocational environment and offers actionable suggestions for educational improvement. This paper addresses the critical gap in creating vocational training programs for police officers. It focuses on police students' vocational education and provides a detailed assessment of fundamental abilities adapted for law enforcement training. The study findings give an insightful overview of the viable future revisions in vocational programs that match the educational requirements and practical demands of the police profession.

Ethical considerations in surgical research conducted in African LMICs: A comprehensive narrative review

Introduction: Surgical research has revolutionized healthcare by improving the efficacy, safety, and efficiency of surgical interventions. This research has the potential to significantly impact healthcare delivery in Africa, where surgical diseases pose a major public health burden. Studies suggest surgery alone could reduce the global disease burden by 11%, with a substantial portion stemming from conditions prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa like traumatic injuries, childbirth complications, and surgical infections. However, conducting surgical research in Africa presents unique ethical challenges. The continent’s diverse socio-economic environments and rich cultural contexts necessitate careful consideration of ethical principles. Traditional research models often don’t translate well to African settings, raising concerns about informed consent, community engagement, and benefit-sharing. Aim: This review aims to shed light on various ethical dilemmas posed within surgical research, conducted in African countries. Further, standard practices and recommendations that involve a multi-pronged approach to mitigate said issues were explored. Materials and Methods: A meticulous analysis of the existing literature pertaining to the ethical issues proffered in Africa was performed. Databases employed comprised PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Pertinent case studies were also reviewed to comprehend said issues, providing comprehensive recommendations. Results: In addressing the ethical challenges in the research, the importance of resource limitation, sociocultural factors, informed consent barriers, technological obsolescence, training deficits, power dynamics, vulnerable populations, regulatory oversight, and compliance was highlighted. The proposed approaches include conducting focused research lectures and practical workshops on surgery, organizing surgical boot camps for medical students, interns, and residents, promoting research in related fields such as anesthesia, radiology, and pathology, ensuring the presence of on-site surgeons as needed, and arranging outreach surgical and educational camps for patients. Conclusion: Promoting community engagement and training local researchers and surgeons are crucial for navigating the unique ethical landscape in Africa. By prioritizing ethical considerations, surgical research can contribute to improved healthcare outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system across the continent.

Strategi Inovatif Dalam Mengelola Keuangan Keluarga: Pengalaman Dari Program KKN di Desa Domas Kabupaten Mojokerto

Domas Village, located in Mojokerto Regency, faces challenges in family financial management that impact the community's welfare. The Community Service Program (KKN) of UPN "Veteran" East Java aims to provide innovative solutions through financial education for the PKK mothers in the village. The methods used include presentations, discussions, practical workshops, and household mentoring. Through presentations and discussions, participants are given basic knowledge about financial literacy, the importance of saving, and how to create a household budget. Practical workshops help participants practice budgeting and debt management strategies. Household mentoring ensures the implementation of the acquired knowledge. The results of this program show an increase in awareness and knowledge of financial management among PKK mothers, reflected in the increased number of families who start budgeting and saving regularly. Consequently, this program has successfully created sustainable social change in the lives of the local residents

Explicit teaching of reflective practice (RP) in pre-service teacher education: probing the immediate and long-term influence

ABSTRACT Despite the abundance of research exploring the formats, functions, and processes of teacher reflections, many pre-service teachers still perceive it as an abstract and daunting task, owing to the insufficient provision of authentic and practical training and support. This article examines the immediate and long-term effects of explicitly teaching reflective practice (RP) on three student teachers’ professional learning in a language pedagogy course within a pre-service teacher education programme. Drawing on data from multiple sources, including semi-structured interviews, field observation, and reflective essays, the findings suggest that student teachers’ RP, in terms of its breadth (i.e. content focus) and depth (i.e. discursive use of language), showed immediate improvement after the practical workshops with an explicit focus on RP. In the second round of interviews conducted two years later, the importance of RP was reiterated by the participants, who highlighted the evidence-based nature of RP while outlining practical challenges that hindered their RP in actual school contexts. The findings further highlight the issue of authenticity in RP and provide practical suggestions for pre-service teacher education.

Results of the eating habits program for children from 3 to 12 years based on Nutriplato®

poor dietary habits and lack of physical activity are associated with non-communicable diseases. A healthy diet during childhood is important for the prevention of these diseases in the short and long term. improve eating habits, promote the Mediterranean diet (MD) and prevent and/or reverse overweight and obesity in children aged 3 to 12 years. the program includes 3 to 5 visits with dietitian-nutritionists, 1 telephone control and 1 practical workshop, with a follow-up of 1 year. Anthropometric, body composition and eating habits data are collected, and nutritional education is provided. the program included 1018 participants (51.5 % children; median age 8.5 ± 2.7 years). At baseline, 31 % were overweight or obese and 33.9 % had optimal MD. 696 participants completed the 12-month follow-up, and an increase in the percentage of participants following optimal MD was observed (38.1 % vs. 53.4 %; p < 0.001). Statistically significant improvements were also observed in relation to the consumption of fruits (except for 3 servings/day), vegetables, legumes, nuts and wholegrains cereals. In participants who were overweight or obese, a slight decrease in the mean BMI z-score was observed at the 12-month follow-up (p = 0.039). the results highlight the need for nutritional education in children and show that the Nutriplato® Program is effective in improving eating habits.