Date of Award
2008
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Cindy Janssen-Holweger
Keywords
Child; Health Promotion; Obesity
Abstract
The World Health Organization (2003) stated that "obesity is a global epidemic". The United States (U.S.) in particular has a statistically significant higher rate of obesity in children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2003), 15.3% of children between the ages of 6 and 11 years old are obese as a result of unhealthy habits and routines. Because these habits and routines often begin in the home environment, health promotion activities should involve parents/guardians (Manios, Kafatos, & Mamalakis, 1998).
At this time there are few resources available for parents/guardians and their children to promote wellness in the home environment. Parents/Guardians of 1st graders are targeted because research indicates that "life-long habits have their roots in early childhood," (Manios, Kafatos, & Mamalakis, 1998, p. 604). The purpose of this scholarly project is to promote healthy habits and routines for first graders and their parents/guardians in their home environment that will continue with them throughout their lifespan.
This scholarly project utilized a literature review to examine childhood obesity and determine the effectiveness of health promotion programs for children. The students utilized the Occupational Adaptation Model to guide the development of a parent/guardian handbook to promote healthy habits and routines in the home environment. The handbook provides activities and educational resources for parents/guardians to use when promoting healthy habits and routines in their 1st grade children.
Recommended Citation
Troje, Shannon and Voth, Stacie, "Promoting Children's Health in the Home Environment: A Parent/Guardian Handbook" (2008). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 317.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/317