Understanding feeding practices utilized for children aged 2-5 years: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: While child dietary preferences and feeding habits are established in early childhood, inadequate feeding practices have  been linked to poor child health outcomes such as stunting and obesity. Given the diversity of foods that may be available for children of  this age range, understanding of the feeding practices utilized is critical.

Objective: A scoping review of literature to understand feeding  practices utilized for children aged 2-5 years from 1990- 2021 is presented. English written peer reviewed articles from a total of six  databases were utilized for the scoping review.

Results: Searched articles that utilized qualitative, quantitative or mixed research  methods were considered. Results indicated that inadequate feeding practices were rampant for children aged 2-5 years leading to  increased child morbidity and mortality from malnutrition related illnesses.

Conclusion: Literature to understand feeding practices  utilized for children aged 2-5 years was obtained through a scoping review. Inadequate feeding practices for children 2-5 year is a global  challenge. Appropriate feeding practices for children aged 2-5 years are mandatory for improved child health outcomes especially in low -  income countries.