The Effect of Training Mothers on Modifying the Meal Boxes of their Preschoolers with Vegetables and Fruits in the Sub-district of Tangerang, Tangerang City, Banten Province

Abstract

Background: Preschooler is a group who is at risk of having low-interest in consuming fruits and vegetables. The low-consumption of vegetables in children is influenced by the mother's lack of knowledge and incomplete composition of food. One way to improve vegetables and fruits consumption was through training in modifying meal box. Objectives: This study purposed at determining the effect of Modifying Meal Box Training to Increase Vegetables and Fruits Consumption for Preschool Children. Method: This study used a quasi-experimental research method with pre-test and post-test control group design.  Involving 40 mothers who took their children to school, this study conducted in the Pengayoman Kindergarten and Trisula Kindergarten in Tangerang City. The results of statistical tests showed that there were differences in knowledge before and after the intervention in the control group and the treatment group. Results: However, after the intervention there was no significant difference in knowledge in the control group and the treatment group with p value of 0.770. There were differences in food composition and consuming vegetables and fruits before and after the intervention in the treatment group. On the other hand, there were no differences in consuming vegetables and fruits consumption before and after intervention in the control group. After the intervention had been given, there was no significant difference in knowledge in the control group and the treatment group with p value of 0.270. Conclusions: Nevertheless, there are differences in the level of knowledge in the control group and the treatment group.