1- Situation:

We facilitated a workshop with nearly 50 participants representing various levels of project implementation, alongside over 50 community members from a local community. The workshop aimed to explore the underlying factors influencing feeding and parenting behaviors within the context of children stunting.

2- Process

Using a participatory approach, we employed the Theory of Change framework to examine participants’ mental models and assumptions about how change occurred during the project’s implementation. The process encouraged participants to reflect on the interconnectedness of culture, gender social norms, and their impact on domestic tasks, time availability, and parenting behaviors.

3- Results

The reflections gathered highlighted that stunting is not merely a health issue; it is deeply tied to cultural practices and gender roles within the community. Addressing stunting requires a broader approach beyond health, considering the double burden faced by women and the importance of involving both men and women in changing social norms. 

To further this effort, working with champions and agents of change—men and women who already practice good parenting—was identified as crucial. These individuals can serve as role models in their communities, helping to drive sustainable change in feeding and parenting behaviors.