A mixed-method study of parents’ views of food and nutrition in Australian primary schools
Abstract
Purpose
Schools have long been perceived as an ideal setting to support the healthy eating behaviours of children. The aim of the study was to examine the views of Australian primary school parents regarding school food and nutrition, including education, practices and policy.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was conducted among 787 parents in March 2021, which included closed and open-ended questions.
Findings
The results indicated the inconsistent implementation of policies and/or varying practices among different schools. Parents’ views were slightly associated with some demographic and personal measures including their SES levels, education, age, the main language spoken at home and universalism values. Parents viewed healthy food provision through canteens, policies and informing parents, fruit and vegetable breaks and kitchen and garden programs as the main contributors to the promotion of healthy eating. They believed unhealthy options in canteens, school fairs, events and birthdays are the major contributors to the formation of unhealthy eating habits among children at schools. Results revealed the efforts to establish health promoting school food environments in Australian primary schools; however, inconsistencies and discrepancies among schools should be addressed to ensure equity among all children.
Practical implications
The findings may provide directions for policymakers and school managers and can inform future reforms and initiatives in Australian primary schools and elsewhere.
Originality/value
This is the first study that has examined Australian parents’ views of school food policy, practices and environments using a mixed-methods design.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors thank the participating parents.
Funding: The study received internal funding from the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University.
Citation
Aydin, G., Margerison, C., Worsley, A. and Booth, A. (2024), "A mixed-method study of parents’ views of food and nutrition in Australian primary schools", Health Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/HE-03-2023-0032
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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