An oral health education/promotion program to Spanish-speaking parents of young children: Feasibility and acceptability

Background: Rural Latino children have disproportionately high prevalence and severity of Early Childhood Caries (ECC). Methods: A 4-session oral health education program (Contra Caries) was devised for low-literate, low-income Latino parents of children aged 1- 5 years in rural Salinas, CA. This pilot study consisted of 13 class groups taught by 4 promotora. Attendance, attrition and acceptability data were collected. All participants were surveyed after program completion and 6 focus groups were conducted with 34 participants for feedback on program logistics, activities and content. Focus group data were thematically analyzed. Results: 116 parents signed up; 87% completed the program. 89% of those attending the first class came to all 4 class sessions. Class size ranged from 5 to 13 parents. Parents particularly enjoyed learning specific details about how to properly brush and floss their and their children's teeth. They also liked learning about bacteria and the decay process, baby teeth, and how to read nutrition labels. Information about dental procedures was appreciated but further discussion about effective communication in the dental office was requested. Convenient classroom location, schedule and provision of child care were acceptable. Parents particularly liked the use and attentiveness of promotoras, listening to and answering all of their questions, but did not like it when lesson scripts were read instead of more spontaneously spoken. Conclusion: Delivery of the Contra Caries curriculum was feasible and acceptable to these Spanish-speaking parents and caregivers of children aged 1-5 years. (NIDCR Grant # R21DE019210).