The CATCH curricula fostered their successful implementation in early childhood and K-12 education by integrating interactive learning, culturally responsive programming, and parental engagement

Early childhood and K-12 education play an important role in shaping health behaviors among young children, thereby establishing a foundation for lifelong wellness. This qualitative study evaluates the implementation of the CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) curricula in early childhood and K-12 education settings, including after-school programs that participated in Los Angeles County’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed). Through focus groups and in-depth interviews with 19 educators and program implementers in 2024, we explored the facilitators and barriers to curricula implementation, particularly in underserved communities. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, our thematic analysis identified three primary facilitator themes: (i) interactive learning that enhances engagement, (ii) culturally responsive food demonstrations that use familiar ingredients, and (iii) physical activity components that are integrated in the programming. The structured nutrition and physical activities of the CATCH curricula were well-received among intended audiences, though implementation varied across sites. To foster student engagement, nutrition activities were diverse and hands-on, while physical activities were implemented more frequently to cater to all age groups. Cultural representation was essential for relatability. Key barrier themes included: (i) structural challenges (e.g., limited kitchens and other facility equipment constraints), (ii) language accessibility gaps, and (iii) competing time priorities. Other challenges included limited parental feedback on the curricula; staff turnover, especially in after-school programs (this hindered consistency); and curricular implementation, which highly depended on school district leadership buy-in and availability of community resources to reinforce healthy habits. Study findings underscore the complex interplay of factors that influenced the integration of health education in these settings. They also suggest that, while structured interventions like CATCH can promote healthy behaviors, addressing broader contextual barriers may be essential for maximizing their impact. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these interventions on children’s health behaviors and develop strategies that will better enhance parental engagement and increase resource accessibility.