iCook4H: dyad model (youth/adult pair) used in recruiting for a multistate study (262.5)

Abstract

Recruitment of a unique approach using a dyad model, defined as youth/adult pair, (9‐10 year old youth and the main preparer of meals adult) incurred challenges in five states. With the goal of 500 dyads the end result was 223 pairs (ME=63, NE=58, TN=34, SD=22, WV=46) over a five‐month recruitment period (April‐August) to include two intense recruiting blitzes. Various approaches used by states: getting into schools before summer break and immediately when school resumed for fall; summer camps such as sports, Girl & Boy Scouts, YMCA; flyers in kid friendly venues, on cars, food bank boxes/bags/backpack program; involved Extension/4H partners; targeted EFNEP eligible participants, hiring a local community recruiter, etc. Barriers identified by states: parent not ready to commit to schedule in summer months; difficult to find venues where child/adult both were; flyer was vague; flyer was inclusive of both control and treatment; conflict with other functions such as sports; not with afterschool programs; access to parents (decision makers) limited; children out of age range or siblings wanting to participate; no internet access; no child care for other children during treatment sessions. Conclusions, using the dyad model the decision maker, scheduler/attendee is the adult even with a child’s enthusiasm and desire to enroll in a study focusing on culinary and nutrition skills, family mealtime and physical activity. Grant Funding Source: USDA AFRI Integrated Childhood Obesity Multi‐state Grant No. UM‐S881