International Journal of Nursing

Mothers’ Perception about Healthy Diet of Preschool Children in Bangladesh
Papia Akter, Tumpa Gharami, and Halima Akter

Abstract
Childhood is a crucial period for growth and development, requiring the right foods in the right amounts at the right times to help children reach their full potential. Mothers' perceptions play an essential role in establishing healthy eating habits in children, influencing their long-term health. This study aimed to assess mothers' perceptions regarding the healthy diets of preschool children in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 132 participants selected through convenience sampling to evaluate mothers' views on healthy diets for preschoolers. Data were collected using a newly developed structured questionnaire, divided into two sections: a socio-demographic questionnaire and a section assessing mothers' perceptions of healthy diets. Face-to-face interviews were used to gather data, and analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (t-test, correlation, and ANOVA) were applied. The mean age of participants was 29.4 years (SD = 6.424). Statistically significant relationships were found between mothers' educational level and perceptions of a healthy diet (F=6.315, p=.000), fathers’ educational level and perceptions of a healthy diet (F=5.611, p=.000), participants' occupation and perceptions of a healthy diet (F=2.497, p=.046), fathers' occupation and perceptions of a healthy diet (F=3.358, p=.021), and residential area and participants' perceptions of a healthy diet (t=-2.633, p=.009). Additionally, there was a positive, significant correlation between family income and perceptions of a healthy diet (r=.266, p=.002). The study highlights a significant gap between mothers' perceptions and actual knowledge regarding healthy diets for preschool children in Bangladesh. Interventions are necessary to enhance mothers' understanding and practices related to child nutrition. Educational programs and public health campaigns targeting mothers, particularly in rural areas, could play a critical role in promoting healthier eating habits among preschool-aged children.

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