The role of family tradition in the nutrition of toddlers

Abstract

Introduction and objective: The parenting style and the education level of mothers may determine how eating habits of children are formed. The aim of our study was to explore how these factors influence the development of child nutrition habits. We explored whether the media has an influential impact on the habits as regards buying healthyfood.
Materials and methods: We performed quantitative, cross-sectional research by convenience sampling in Szombathely and in Táplánszentkereszt. Our target group was parents with 2-6 year-old children. A self-compiled questionnaire was used for the collection of data. 100 questionnaires could be evaluated. Data processing took place with the help of SPSS Statistical Software and Microsoft Office Excel 2007. Descriptive statistics were used, furthermore the chi2test (p<0,05), was applied to determinethe relationship between variables.
Results: Children's diet in families were varied, but it would be necessary for every child to eat fruits and vegetables as well as dairy products every day. Mothers with higher education level better cared for the nutrition of their children, however, there cannot be found any connection between the feeding style and the mother’s level of education (p>0,05). When choosing healthy foods for family meals, most of the families relied on the opinions of friends and family members, but the media also played a decisive role in shopping habits. Most of the surveyed children had adequate BMI, but even so, a quarter of them struggled with overweight. However, the feeding style of the mother was not related to the development of children's nutritional status (p>0,05).
Conclusion: As a summary of the research, we conclude that the majority of mothers strive to develop a varied nutrition. The media has also influencing effects, despite the fact that most people revere the traditions.