Development of Nutritional Management Model in Bueng Malu Childcare Center in Bueng Malu Subdistrict, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province in Coronavirus 2019 Pandemic Situation

Abstract

This operational research aimed to develop and evaluate the effects of a nutritional management model in the Ban Bueng Malu Childcare Center, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved 16 personnel and 63 children and was conducted in a circle of four stages: Planning, action, observation, and reflection of the results from July to December 2022. Data were collected through observation, group discussions, and evaluation of menu planning, children's dietary behavior, and nutritional status. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency and percentage, while qualitative data were categorized and summarized to identify key issues.

The results showed that during the non-COVID-19 pandemic period, nutritional management was provided through lunch and afternoon snacks, but menu planning did not meet the standard. Children's dietary behavior was still inappropriate, and malnutrition was presented. During the COVID-19 pandemic period, the budget for food was distributed to parents to manage, leading to collaboration between the relevant parties to develop a model comprising four stages: 1) Collaborating with stakeholders to analyze the situation before and during the COVID-19 pandemic; 2) Joint planning through operational meetings; 3) Implementing activities based on the plan; and 4) Continuous monitoring and evaluation. According to the study, menu planning met the standard criteria, and there was an increase in the consumption of main meals from 38.3% to 91.7%. The nutritional status of children also improved, with a percentage increase from 61.90% to 76.67%. However, the study had limitations in terms of the duration of the activity and the need for continuous follow-up. Therefore, future development efforts should focus on connecting individual nutritional planning and community involvement with parents.