HERE For You, For Them: Initial lessons learned from a wellbeing program for early childhood education professionals in rural family childcare homes
Advisor Information
Dr. Danae Dinkel
Location
MBSC Ballroom - Poster #104 - G
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
4-3-2022 9:00 AM
End Date
4-3-2022 10:15 AM
Abstract
Early childhood education professionals (ECEPs) possess risk factors for cardiovascular disease and high rates of stress which can lead to depression and/or burnout. This further impacts the sensitivity and responsiveness that ECEPs provide for the children in their care. Unfortunately, rural family childcare homes (FCCHs) typically have limited resources and access to physical and mental wellbeing trainings. The purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility of the HERE For You For Them (HERE) program for rural FCCH ECEPs. Using evidence-based mindfulness tools and techniques the HERE program aims to build a support network where no child and family feels alone with their mental health. During this 16-week pilot the ECEPs attend monthly one-hour long trainings via Zoom and wear a Fitbit to track their physical activity levels throughout the program. Online surveys were completed to measure their physical and mental wellbeing at baseline. Assessment of feasibility and acceptability will be completed through biweekly electronic surveys, a mid, and post program interview. A total of n=28 ECEPs were recruited. All participants are female and have been working in childcare for 17.4 (±6.5) years. 95% of the ECEPs were satisfied with the topic of the first training and 85% were engaged by the presenter. After the first week, the HERE website had 66 visits, and 11 activity pack downloads. Despite not being required, 13 participants joined the private Facebook group and 15 downloaded the HERE app. The program will continue to be assessed for program feasibility and acceptability.
Scheduling Link
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HERE For You, For Them: Initial lessons learned from a wellbeing program for early childhood education professionals in rural family childcare homes
MBSC Ballroom - Poster #104 - G
Early childhood education professionals (ECEPs) possess risk factors for cardiovascular disease and high rates of stress which can lead to depression and/or burnout. This further impacts the sensitivity and responsiveness that ECEPs provide for the children in their care. Unfortunately, rural family childcare homes (FCCHs) typically have limited resources and access to physical and mental wellbeing trainings. The purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility of the HERE For You For Them (HERE) program for rural FCCH ECEPs. Using evidence-based mindfulness tools and techniques the HERE program aims to build a support network where no child and family feels alone with their mental health. During this 16-week pilot the ECEPs attend monthly one-hour long trainings via Zoom and wear a Fitbit to track their physical activity levels throughout the program. Online surveys were completed to measure their physical and mental wellbeing at baseline. Assessment of feasibility and acceptability will be completed through biweekly electronic surveys, a mid, and post program interview. A total of n=28 ECEPs were recruited. All participants are female and have been working in childcare for 17.4 (±6.5) years. 95% of the ECEPs were satisfied with the topic of the first training and 85% were engaged by the presenter. After the first week, the HERE website had 66 visits, and 11 activity pack downloads. Despite not being required, 13 participants joined the private Facebook group and 15 downloaded the HERE app. The program will continue to be assessed for program feasibility and acceptability.