‘‘A study to assess the growth and development of preschool children (age 3-4 years) attending Anganwadi in selected rural area of Haryana.’’

Abstract

Growth and development are critical indicators of health and well-being during early childhood, particularly in the preschool years when rapid physical and developmental changes occur. This study aimed to assess the growth and development of preschool children (3–4 years) attending Anganwadi centres in selected rural areas of Haryana, to determine the association between growth and development with selected demographic variables, and to identify the correlation between growth and developmental domains. A quantitative research approach with a descriptive survey design was adopted. The study sample comprised 150 preschool children aged 3–4 years, selected using a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule administered to parents. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) were assessed using standard measurement tools. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The demographic profile revealed that the majority of children were aged 3.7–3.9 years (33.33%), male (59.3%), Hindu (75%), from nuclear families (46.7%), and belonged to families with moderate monthly income. Most fathers had secondary-level education (39.34%) and were private employees (34.66%), while the majority of mothers were homemakers (66.66%). Anthropometric assessment showed that 59.3% of children had average height, 72.7% had average weight, and 86.0% had average MUAC. Significant associations were observed between height and fathers’ education and meal pattern; weight with child’s age and family income; and MUAC with age, birth order, and family income. Developmental assessment revealed significant associations across gross motor, fine motor, self-care, cognitive, language, psychosocial, and psychosexual domains with variables such as age, parental education, occupation, and meal pattern. A positive correlation was identified between overall growth and developmental status of preschool children. The study highlights the influence of socio-demographic and nutritional factors on the growth and development of preschool children in rural settings, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions through Anganwadi services.

Keywords
Preschool children, growth, development, Anganwadi, assessment.