Feeding practices of under-5 children in a semi-urban village in Bangladesh

Abstract

Objective: To explore the reported feeding practices of under-five (U-5) children in a rapidly urbanizing village in Bangladesh. Methodology: This was a study with qualitative exploratory design based on grounded theory. Researchers identified caregivers of U-5 children and shopkeepers in proximity to the village through purposive sampling. The researchers conducted five in-depth interviews, two focus group discussions, participatory rapid appraisal exercises and three informal interviews were done. For the purpose of triangulation, informal observations took place in households, nearby shops and with children on the streets. Results: The study identified five main themes: family influences, caregiver’s educational level, overall changes in time, the perception of “good” or “bad” food for health and preferences. Conclusion: Exploring these themes regarding the feeding practices of U-5 children will be helpful in understanding the health and nutritional changes of nearby semi-urban areas going through rapid development. Keywords: under-5 children, feeding practices, urbanization, Bangladesh