Evaluation of Messages to Motivate Parents to Promote Intake of Calcium-Rich Foods in Early Adolescents

Abstract

Parental practices such as role modeling and setting rules and expectations influence intake of calcium-rich foods and beverages (CRFB) in early adolescents. This study aimed to test three posters promoting such parental practices with respect to comprehension, cultural and personal relevance, and ability to motivate parents to encourage CRFB intake. Interviews were conducted with 14 Hispanic and 6 Asian parents from three states to evaluate two posters containing images and taglines tailored to these racial/ethnic groups, entitled “Good play starts with calcium” and “Strong families start with good nutrition.” Responses were reviewed for common themes. For the message, “Good play starts with calcium,” both groups of parents understood the message to provide CRFB to their children for adequate calcium intake. Only Hispanics, however, recognized the connection between calcium intake and strong bones. For the message, “Strong families start with good nutrition,” both groups had difficulty understanding that the foods pictured contained calcium and should be provided to ensure adequate intake. Both posters were considered culturally and personally relevant; however, respondents did not indicate motivation to provide CRFB in response to posters. Given the issues identified regarding comprehension and ability to motivate parents, modifications are needed to emphasize the connection between images and taglines featured in the posters and calcium intake for use in a future intervention to improve CRFB-promoting practices among parents of early adolescents.