In the realm of speech-language pathology, data-driven decisions are pivotal for creating effective interventions and achieving great outcomes for children. The study titled "Effectiveness of an integrated model of oral health-promoting schools in improving children's knowledge and the KAP of their parents, Iran" provides a wealth of data that can be harnessed to enhance oral health education and outcomes for school-aged children.
This interventional quasi-experimental study, conducted in the 2019-2020 academic year, involved 354 primary school students and their parents. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of an Oral Health Promoting School (OHPS) model on children's oral health knowledge and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of their parents. The study utilized a variety of educational tools and interventions, including training workshops, educational videos, and social network reminders, to improve oral health behaviors.
Key Findings
- Significant Improvement in Knowledge: The study reported a significant increase in the mean knowledge scores of both children and parents post-intervention. For instance, the mean knowledge score of parents increased from 12.3 ± 3.1 to 15 ± 3.03 (p < 0.001).
- Enhanced Attitudes and Practices: Parents' attitudes towards their children's ability to take care of their teeth improved significantly (p = 0.029). Additionally, the practice of using fluoridated toothpaste among parents improved significantly (p < 0.001).
- Correlation Between Parent and Child Behaviors: There was a significant correlation between the tooth brushing behaviors of parents and their children (p < 0.001, Spearman Correlation Coefficient = 0.4).
Implementing Findings in Practice
For practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology, these findings underscore the importance of integrating oral health education into school-based interventions. Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Collaborate with Schools: Work with school administrators to implement comprehensive oral health education programs. Utilize educational tools such as workshops, pamphlets, and digital reminders to reinforce learning.
- Engage Parents: Develop parent-focused interventions that educate them about the importance of oral health and their role in shaping their children's oral health behaviors. Use evidence-based frameworks like the Theoretical Domains Framework to design these interventions.
- Monitor and Evaluate: Use pre- and post-intervention assessments to monitor changes in knowledge, attitudes, and practices. This data-driven approach will help in fine-tuning the interventions for better outcomes.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, there is always room for further research. Practitioners are encouraged to explore the long-term impact of such interventions and assess their cost-effectiveness. Additionally, studies could investigate the role of cultural factors in shaping oral health behaviors and the effectiveness of tailored interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Effectiveness of an integrated model of oral health-promoting schools in improving children's knowledge and the KAP of their parents, Iran.
