Parental Feeding Behavior: Influences of Elementary Children’s Health

The purpose of this study was to assess the nutrition and physical activity of children. The hypothesis was that parental feeding styles will influence the healthy eating habits and physical activity among children. Childhood obesity has been called one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century (World Health Organization, n.d). In the past 30 years, childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2013). The research design used was a quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental, self-reported study in which a 27-question survey measured the parents’ child feeding behavior (n=53). Participants with elementary-aged children. Descriptive and inferential statistics reported means and significant differences. Data analysis indicated that 98.1% of the parent’s would always encourage their child to eat a wide variety of food. This study found a statistically significant difference in parental education level (p= 0.030) ranging from High School Graduate to Master’s Degree. Recommendations include health education on positive parental guidance on eating habits and physical activity.