Assessment of eating habits of preschool children and parent attitudes

Abstract

Objective The purpose of this study is to investigate preschoolers’ eating behaviors and parents’ attitudes. Methods This descriptive observational study employed a convenience sampling method to investigate the eating behavior of preschool children aged 3-6 years. Data was collected through a Personal and Parent Information Form and the Children’s Eating Behavior Inventory. The study included 206 participants, and the findings provide insights into parental attitudes toward feeding and children’s eating behaviors in 3-6 age group. Results The study sample included 206 parents of children between the ages of 3 and 6, with the majority of children having a normal weight. Parents’ responses to the survey questions revealed significant correlations between children’s weight percentiles and parental education level, maternal body mass index level, and income level. Positive eating behaviors in children were positively correlated with parental age and education level, income level, child age, and child percentile level, while negative eating behaviors were negatively correlated with parental age, educational status, income level, and positively correlated with maternal body mass index level. Gender differences were observed, with male children exhibiting lower mean scores in negative eating behaviors, maternal views and behaviors, child food preparation behavior, and negative meal situations compared to female children. Conclusion We found that parental education level and income level were correlated with children’s positive eating behavior, while they were negatively associated with negative eating behavior. Negative eating behavior and food preparation behavior were lower in boys than in girls.