The feasibility and acceptability of a low-cost, media-supported intervention for caregivers to support infant-toddler language learning (Preprint)

BACKGROUND This study examines the feasibility and acceptability of a low-intensity, short term social media intervention for caregivers of young toddlers. OBJECTIVE We used the TikTok platform to share short form videos to help increase caregiver knowledge about how to help their toddlers learn to talk. METHODS We used a mixed methods design to characterize participant engagement, explore measures of changes in caregiver knowledge, and we conducted a qualitative analysis of caregiver interviews after the intervention. RESULTS Most caregivers consistently viewed the videos and reported positive effects of the intervention on their knowledge of how to support their child. Caregivers offered suggestions for content and enhancements to videos for future investigations. CONCLUSIONS Low-cost, short term social media interventions could represent an effective means to equip caregivers with information they need to advance their children’s language abilities, particularly for families from marginalized backgrounds whose access to health information about their young children may be limited. CLINICALTRIAL N/A