Eating Better Together A 6-Month Family Behavioral Intervention with Home Fruit and Vegetable Deliveries for Children 4 to 10 Years Overweight or Obese

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a 6-month family program called Eating Better Together to address childhood overweight and obesity in underserved children aged 4 to 10 years with a BMI above the 85th percentile. This program combines a behavioral intervention based on Prevention Plus, which focuses on improving fruit and vegetable intake, reducing sugar-sweetened beverages, increasing physical activity, and reducing screen time, with a fruit and vegetable prescription incentive to increase access to fresh produce. The study targets families with low income and food insecurity, aiming to improve child weight status and diet quality through a family-based approach. Families in the study will participate in the Prevention Plus program, which includes three in-person sessions at months 1, 3, and 5, and three phone calls at months 2, 4, and 6 with a Behavioral Health Consultant. During visits, child height, weight, and BMI are measured and feedback is provided. The program uses behavioral parenting strategies and self-monitoring tools for both children and caregivers to encourage healthy energy balance behaviors. In addition, families receive up to 60 per month in home deliveries of fresh fruits and vegetables from a local retail partner to support dietary goals. Participants will complete baseline assessments including questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Throughout the study, families monitor child and caregiver behaviors using diaries and receive newsletters on nutrition. Progress is tracked through growth measurements and behavioral goals during sessions and calls. Outcome measures include participation rates, intervention completion, funds spent on produce deliveries, and changes in dietary intake, food security, and anthropometrics. The total study duration is approximately 6 months, with ongoing support and monitoring to enhance child health outcomes.

EBT Fruit and Vegetable Prescription