School-Based Health Literacy Programs for Children (2-16 Years): An International Review.
Rosie NashKira A E PattersonAnna FlittnerShandell L ElmerRichard H OsbornePublished in: The Journal of school health (2021)
This review found a variety of project designs, evaluation methods, and conceptual models. Descriptive analysis of the final 21 papers highlighted the importance of multicomponent design (whole-of-school and curriculum), cross-curricula integration, professional development for teachers, age of children, role of parents, and role of community. The results of this analysis may inform primary school program design in the future. Schools provide a logical setting for health literacy development. Despite the evidence that adolescence is too late, few studies have been situated in primary schools. Teachers lack confidence to teach health and need ongoing professional development. Parent, child, and community voices are essential for sustained engagement and program success.