A video–Assisted Teaching for Mothers Toward the Management of Childhood Stunting

Background: Childhood stunting remains a critical global health issue, with significant consequences for physical and cognitive development. Effective maternal education is essential for proper stunting management. This study evaluated the effect of a video-assisted teaching program on mothers' knowledge and practices regarding childhood stunting management. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-post-test design was conducted among 82 mothers of stunted children attending pediatric and nutrition clinics at Ain Shams University Hospitals. The intervention consisted of a three-day video-assisted teaching program covering theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Data were collected using a validated Arabic questionnaire assessing knowledge (33 items) and self-reported practices (74 items). Results: Post-intervention, mothers demonstrated significant improvements in all knowledge domains: stunting (0.27±0.45 to 8.55±0.69, p<0.001), nutritional care (0.66±0.82 to 12.76±0.43, p<0.001), and growth hormone therapy (0.09±0.28 to 9.91±0.28, p<0.001). Practice scores also increased markedly, particularly in nutrition (1.15±0.86 to 13.95±1.47, p<0.001) and growth hormone administration (0.17±0.38 to 10.09±1.19, p<0.001). The intervention was effective across all demographic groups, with older (>35 years) and working mothers showing marginally higher gains (p<0.05). Conclusion: Video-assisted teaching significantly enhances the mother’s knowledge and practices in stunting management, regardless of education or socioeconomic status. This approach should be integrated into routine maternal education programs to combat childhood stunting effectively.