PENDAMPINGAN EDUKASI IBU YANG MEMILIKI BALITA DALAM UPAYA PENINGKATAN KUNJUNGAN BALITA KE POSYANDU

Abstract

The low attendance of toddlers at posyandu (integrated health posts) remains a major public health issue as it delays child growth monitoring and increases the risk of nutritional problems. A self-survey conducted in Simpangan Village, North Cikarang District, Bekasi Regency, recorded 32 toddlers, but only 13% attended posyandu regularly each month. This study aimed to improve mothers’ knowledge and motivation in bringing their toddlers to posyandu through educational assistance. A descriptive research design with a participatory approach was applied. The subjects were all mothers with toddlers in RT 03/04 RW 07 Simpangan Village, selected using total sampling. Data were collected through interviews, self-survey, and Focus Group Discussion (FGD), and analyzed descriptively. The results showed that the main factors contributing to low attendance were mothers’ limited knowledge, the perceived distance to posyandu, and the suboptimal role of health cadres in providing reminders. Interventions in the form of health education and FGD effectively increased mothers’ understanding and commitment to visiting posyandu more regularly. In conclusion, educational assistance was effective in improving mothers’ awareness and motivation to attend posyandu. It is recommended that continuous health education, strengthened cadre involvement, and village government support in improving access to posyandu be implemented.