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Feasibility study: Family-based pediatric weight management program adapted to be virtual
Obesity ; 29(SUPPL 2):101, 2021.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-1616075
ABSTRACT

Background:

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the closure of schools across the United States(US), more children are struggling with mental health and obesity issues than ever before. KidShape, an evidence-based pediatric weight management program, had been implemented successfully across the United States as an in-person program. KidShape saw a need to reimagine the program in an online format to scale an effective family wellness program.

Methods:

Registered Dietitians (RD) and a health psychologist evaluated the nine-week KidShape behavioral family-based weight management intervention (totaling 26.5 contact hours over three months) to determine which evidence-based components were needed to implement the program online and meet the US Preventive Services Recommendation Statement for Obesity in Children as a comprehensive, intensive behavioral interventions (2017). An online curriculum was designed for families with children ages 7 to 13 to meet one hour twice a week for 12 weeks plus a one-hour nutrition assessment at the beginning of the program and a nutrition reassessment at the program midpoint with an RD ( = 26 contact hours). The weekly family group sessions provide tools for healthy eating, improving physical activity, limiting screen time, mindfulness, problem solving, improving self-esteem/ body image, and goal setting. The team evaluated three online platforms for implementation Blackboard, Zoom and Outschool.

Results:

Virtual KidShape workshops were implemented with a combination of Outschool and Zoom platforms with the greatest success as determined by ease of use and participation. The RDs and health psychologist teaching the workshops were able to actively and positively engage with families virtually. The intervention was scalable quickly without physical space limitations. Families joined from multiple states and 100% provided positive feedback.

Conclusions:

Adaptation of KidShape, a comprehensive intensive behavioral intervention, to effectively address pediatric mental health and weight issues was feasible in an online virtual format. Families accessed the program accross the US regardless of geography. The evidence-based curriculum plus using technology that families were familiar with due to online school and parents working virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic created a positive user experience.
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Full text: Available Collection: Databases of international organizations Database: EMBASE Language: English Journal: Obesity Year: 2021 Document Type: Article

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Full text: Available Collection: Databases of international organizations Database: EMBASE Language: English Journal: Obesity Year: 2021 Document Type: Article