Development and psychometric validation of an app-integrated questionnaire to assess healthy habits in children (Ages 8–11): implications for pediatric nursing practice

Introduction: Promoting healthy habits in childhood is fundamental for fostering long-term well-being. This study aimed to develop and psychometrically validate an app-integrated instrument to assess knowledge, habits, and attitudes related to health in children aged 8–11, within the context of the MHealth intervention Healthy Jeart. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was used. An initial item pool underwent expert content validation before being administered to a sample of 623 children from primary education centers in Andalusia, Spain. Construct validity was examined through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Results: The analyses supported a coherent four-factor structure comprising 21 items: (1) Use of technologies, (2) diet and growth, (3) psychological well-being, and (4) physical activity and well-being. The instrument demonstrated satisfactory model fit and internal consistency, providing a multidimensional assessment of children’s health-related behaviors. The sample was recruited from primary schools in Andalusia (Spain), which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other regions and cultural contexts. Conclusions: The validated instrument offers a reliable and efficient means of evaluating healthy habits in children aged 8–11, particularly when embedded within digital interventions such as Healthy Jeart. It represents a valuable tool for educators and pediatric nursing professionals working in school settings, enabling early identification of gaps in health literacy and supporting targeted interventions that promote holistic child well-being.