"A Comparative Study To Assess The Knowledge And Attitude Of Mothers Of Under 5 Year Children Regarding The Importance Of Outdoor Play Needs In Rural And Urban Area Of Jabalpur (M.P.)''

ABSTRACT: Outdoor play is essential for the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children under 5 years. However, there is a growing concern that children are spending less time outdoors, leading to a range of negative consequences. Background of study: Outdoor play is essential for the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children under 5 years. However, there is a growing concern that children are spending less time outdoors, leading to a range of negative consequences. The knowledge and attitude of mothers of under 5 year children regarding the importance of outdoor play needs in rural and urban area of Jabalpur. A descriptive comparative study was conducted among 60 mothers of children under 5 years, divided into two groups: urban and rural. A structured questionnaire and Likert scale was used to assess the knowledge and attitude of mothers. The study revealed significant differences in the knowledge and attitude of urban and rural mothers regarding outdoor play. Urban mothers had better knowledge, but a more negative attitude towards outdoor play, safety concerns and lack of access to outdoor spaces. The major finding indicates that rural mean 5.33 and SD 2.03 and urban mean 6.73 and SD 1.6and their co- relation is 1.05 .The major finding Indicates that the rural mean 43.96 and SD 10.23 and urban mean 88.58 and SD 10.002 and their co- relation is 0.00065.