Examining the feasibility of a brief parent intervention designed to promote positive food communication with infants.

Abstract

Abstract Background: Few prevention interventions exist focusing on supporting parents to use positive food communication at mealtimes, for the prevention of disordered eating. “Mealtime chatter matters (MCM)” is a brief intervention designed for parents of infants. The intervention was designed in collaboration with child health nurses (CHNs) to be embedded into usual care. The overall aim of this study was to test the feasibility of the intervention through examining the acceptability of the MCM content and resources and the potential impact of the intervention on parents. Methods: This pilot study utilised a mixed methods approach and took place within a regional child health service in Queensland, Australia (October 2021 to June 2022). Participants were parents of infants attending child health education groups and CHNs. The intervention consisted of a brief education session (including accompanying resources), facilitated by a Paediatric Dietitian. The acceptability of MCM content and resources was assessed by both parents and CHNs via self-reported questionnaires and the impact on parents assessed via Pre/Post self-reported questionnaires. Results: Forty-six parents of infants (aged < 8 months) and six CHNs who hosted the intervention and observed the program’s delivery participated in the study. MCM content and resources were highly acceptable to parents and CHNs, as both qualitative and quantitative data concurred. However, mixed results were found regarding the impact data, with the findings suggesting the impact remains unclear. Tangible lessons and opportunities to further test this aspect of feasibility are explored. Conclusion: Overall, MCM was acceptable to both parents and CHNs, with the content and resources both being highly valued. Parents reported the content to be informative and engaging and CHNs were keen to have such an intervention available in the future. However, to understand the impact of MCM on parents further modification and testing is required. This foundation study is an essential first step in supporting parents and CHNs to access an evidence-based intervention with the aim of preventing disordered eating. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Griffith University Human Research Ethics Committee (2021/577) and Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service Human Research Ethics Committee (QGC/76618).