AN INVESTIGATION OF PARENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF HEALTHY EATING BEHAVIOURS OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN IN RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

This research was aimed at investigating parent’s perceptions of healthy eating behaviours and lifestyles of preschool children aged 3-6 years old in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study explored the factors that influence preschool children’s eating behaviours from the parents’ perspective and also the different practices of promoting healthy eating and the sources of information on children’s health behaviour. A qualitative research approach was adopted which involved 12 semi- structured interviews with parents of preschool children aged 3-6 years old. The study has found that children’s eating behaviour and lifestyle is affected by several factors which can be categorised into four main themes. These are the influence of culture, influence of parents and household members, influence of social environment and child’s food preferences and behaviours. The influence of culture was revealed in the frequency of social gatherings and also in the eating and cooking practices. Parents and household members (such as nannies) had an influence with food as reward and easy access to unhealthy food reinforcing the influence. The influence of the media on health behaviour was noticeable particular social media and television in both negative and positive ways. Peer influence was also observed, and individual fussy eating behaviour of children highlighted. The study has recommended the need for health education and promotion, targeting both parents and children through the mediums which are often used (social media and television). Also, the study has recommended for an increased role of health professionals in providing information and monitoring children’s health and wellbeing on a more regular basis.