[Design and evaluation of complementary food simulators based on core information of infant and young child complementary feeding].

Abstract

Objective: To design and evaluate complementary food simulators that encompass core information of infant and young child complementary feeding recommendations.

Methods: According to the domestic and international guidelines for infant and young child complementary feeding and the latest research findings, combined with infant and young child oral development and the characteristics of complementary food, the simulators was designed and produced. Using convenient sampling method, 350 child healthcare workers with experience in infant and young child feeding counselling from Beijing community health service centers were selected. Following presentations detailing the design and usage of the complementary food simulators through slides and videos, along with demonstration of the actual simulators, electronic questionnaires were distributed to gather their feedback.

Results: Approximately 90% of the healthcare workers rated the simulator as good in terms of its usefulness, acceptability, interactivity, willingness to use, and overall evaluation. Among the 329 workers expressing willingness to utilize the simulators, nearly 90% believed that it could enhance the effectiveness of training and feeding counselling. Roughly 80% indicated that the simulators could boost parents' feeding confidence and skills, improve the engagement and enjoyment of counselling sessions, and visually demonstrate the texture and types of complementary foods.

Conclusion: The infant and young child complementary food simulator, rooted in core information on complementary feeding, has been well-received by community healthcare workers and can serve as an efficient auxiliary tool for infant and young child feeding counselling and education.