Anticipatory Guidance and Early Child Development: Pediatrician Advice, Parent Behaviors, and Unmet Needs as Reported by Parents From Different Backgrounds

Abstract

Anticipatory guidance is acknowledged as an important aspect of pediatric practice, and research shows that parents expect and value the information and advice they receive from their pediatric health care providers. This study surveyed 373 parents (88% mothers) of infants in waiting rooms of diverse pediatric practices in Memphis,Tennessee, about their recall of anticipatory guidance received, unmet needs for anticipatory guidance, preferences for sources of information, and activities to promote healthy development. Most parents recalled specific guidance received (diet, communication, and discipline being the most common), and unmet needs (discipline and development being among the most common). Disadvantaged parents reported the fewest unmet needs. Most parents readily named specific activities they engage in to promote development, including reading, educational toys, and nurturing.