Preventing Underweight in Toddlers: IPB University Vocational School Students Introduce “Digi-Ku” to Mothers in Cibunian Village

Students from the Vocational School (SV) of IPB University, majoring in Food Service and Nutrition Management (MIJMG), conducted a nutrition education outreach program titled “Smart Mothers, Healthy Toddlers: Nutrition Education and Balanced Menu Practice through DIGI-Ku in Cibunian Village.”

The outreach, held in Cibunian Village, Pamijahan Sub-district, Bogor Regency, was attended by 21 participants, consisting of health cadres from Posyandu Warga Sehat 3 and mothers of toddlers. This activity was also part of the “Methods and Techniques of Nutrition Education” course, involving 16 students.

According to Rosyda Dianah, SKM, MKM, the course coordinator, the activity was designed not only to strengthen students’ theoretical understanding but also to enable them to engage directly with the community and make a tangible impact in improving family nutrition awareness.

Participants were provided with comprehensive explanations about the definition and causes of underweight in toddlers, its signs and health impacts, and how to apply the “My Plate” dietary guideline according to children’s age groups.

“This hands-on educational approach is expected to help mothers understand the importance of balanced nutrition and how to prevent malnutrition among young children,” she explained.

In addition to educational sessions, the students introduced an innovative companion medium called DIGI-Ku (My Nutrition Diary)  a booklet designed to help mothers monitor their toddlers’ daily food intake, growth, and healthy habits.

DIGI-Ku also serves as a nutrition status monitoring tool for children aged 6–60 months, equipped with practical guides, engaging illustrations, and simple recipes based on references from the Indonesian Ministry of Health.

To reinforce understanding, participants also took part in a demonstration of preparing a balanced menu called ‘Schotel Soun’ for toddlers aged 12–23 months. Through this practical session, mothers learned about the importance of diverse nutritious ingredients and easy methods for preparing healthy meals at home. The finished dishes were shared with mothers and children so they could experience firsthand the taste and benefits of nutritious food.

A representative from the village administration, Mr Dulloh, expressed his appreciation for the initiative. “This activity is excellent for improving the knowledge of both health cadres and mothers about the importance of nutrition for children. I hope similar programs can continue to be held so the community becomes more aware of how to provide healthy meals for toddlers,” he said. (IAAS/MRM)