The Implementation of Health Module to Identify Children’s Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Among Pre-schoolers in Rural Area
List of Authors
Auliantika Selian, Nor Hashimah Hashim
Keyword
Health Education, Preschool Children, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP), Rural Area
Abstract
This research explained the implementation of the health module to identify preschool children’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to personal hygiene and healthy food choices in a rural preschool in Malaysia. The research was conducted at a government preschool in Sik, Kedah, with six children aged six years and one preschool teacher as a sample, selected through purposive sampling. This study employed case study design using qualitative approach, collecting data using various instruments, including observations, video recordings, and semi-structured interviews, to assess children’s KAP for seven units of the health module. Thematic analysis was applied to analyse the data. The findings showed that the health module was embedded within the classroom routine through interactive pedagogical strategies such as storytelling, songs, hands-on activities, and visual aids. These approaches enhanced children’s engagement, sustained attention, and reinforced learning. The findings showed that the children developed a sound understanding of personal hygiene and healthy food practices, showed increased enthusiasm toward daily health routines, and motivated peers to adopt similar behaviours. Observable improvements included consistent hand washing, correct tooth brushing techniques, and the selection of nutritious foods. The participating teacher emphasized the importance of the module’s structured design, cultural relevance, and alignment with children’s developmental stages. Overall, the study highlights that an engaging and contextually relevant health education module can foster healthy habits among pre-schoolers, particularly in rural areas where health education may be limited. It is recommended that such modules be integrated into the National Preschool Standard Curriculum (NPSC), supported by enhanced teacher training and strengthened school and family collaboration to reinforce positive health behaviours both at school and at home.