A novel approach to support parents in developing healthy behaviours among preschool children

Background: Parents play a crucial role in shaping the development of healthy lifestyle behaviours in young children. Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services are an ideal setting in which to promote these behaviours through parent communication initiatives. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and impact of the Healthy Adventures Book pack in increasing parent and carer capacity to support positive dietary intake, physical activity and screen use behaviours in their 3- to 5-year-old children. Methods: ECEC services in western Sydney, Australia ( n = 136) and families with 3- to 5-year-old children ( n = 258) participated in the study. Families received a pack containing health information, a vegetable-shaped toy and a storybook. They were encouraged to read the materials and help their child complete the activities. The study adopted a pragmatic pre-post mixed-methods design, with parents completing pre- and post-intervention questionnaires on demographic characteristics and readiness and confidence to support behaviour change. Process data were collected from parents and ECEC directors, and semi-structured interviews were conducted post-intervention. Data were analysed using Mann Whitney U tests. Thematic analysis was conducted on parent interview data. Results: There was a significant improvement in parent confidence to support physical activity, though no significant changes were found for other behaviours. The process evaluation indicated high acceptability; 93% of parents reported their children were excited to use the pack, 91% found it easy to complete, and 86% found it useful for learning about healthy behaviours. Conclusion: ECEC directors found the pack was well-received, easy to implement and effective in facilitating conversations with families about health behaviours.