Assessment of nutritional status among preschool-aged children

Abstract

Nutritional status during the preschool years is a critical determinant of growth, cognitive development, and long-term health outcomes. However, variations in dietary practices, parental awareness, and socio-environmental factors contribute to diverse nutritional patterns in early childhood. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of preschool-aged children and examine its relationship with gross motor development. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 84 children aged 4–6 years enrolled in formal preschool institutions. Respondents were selected based on inclusion criteria, and anthropometric measurements were performed to classify nutritional status using standardized indicators. Gross motor development was assessed using age-appropriate developmental checklists. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine frequency distributions. The findings showed that most participants were 5 years old (52.4%) and female (59.5%). In terms of nutritional status, half of the children (50.0%) were classified as overnourished, while 27.4% had normal nutrition, and 22.6% were undernourished. No cases of severe malnutrition were recorded. Regarding gross motor development, 67.9% of children demonstrated appropriate development, whereas 32.1% were categorized as doubtful, with no deviations observed. The data highlight the coexistence of overnutrition and undernutrition within the same population, reflecting the double burden of malnutrition. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted nutritional interventions and continuous developmental monitoring in preschool settings. Strengthening parental education and integrating nutrition-sensitive programs in early childhood education are recommended to optimize health and developmental outcomes.