The pro children intervention: applying the intervention mapping protocol to develop a school-based fruit and vegetable promotion programme.
OBJECTIVE
The importance of careful theory-based intervention planning is recognized for fruit and vegetable promotion. This paper describes the application of the Intervention Mapping (IM) protocol to develop the Pro Children intervention to promote consumption of fruit and vegetable among 10- to 13-year-old schoolchildren.


METHODS
Based on a needs assessment, promotion of intake of fruit and vegetable was split into performance objectives and related personal, social and environmental determinants. Crossing the performance objectives with related important and changeable determinants resulted in a matrix of learning and change objectives for which appropriate educational strategies were identified. Theoretically similar but culturally relevant interventions were designed, implemented and evaluated in Norway, the Netherlands and Spain during 2 school years.


RESULTS
Programme activities included provision of fruits and vegetables in the schools, guided classroom activities, computer-tailored feedback and advice for children, and activities to be completed at home with the family. Additionally, optional intervention components for community reinforcement included incorporation of mass media, school health services or grocery stores. School project committees were supported.


CONCLUSIONS
The Pro Children intervention was carefully developed based on the IM protocol that resulted in a comprehensive school-based fruit and vegetable promotion programme, but culturally sensible and locally relevant.
Pérez-Rodrigo
Carmen
C
Community Nutrition Unit, Department of Public Health, Bilbao, Spain. bisaludpublica@wanadoo.es
Wind
Marianne
M
Hildonen
Christina
C
Bjelland
Mona
M
Aranceta
Javier
J
Klepp
Knut-Inge
KI
Brug
Johannes
J
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D053198:Child Nutrition Sciences / Q000193:education*; D005060:Europe; D005260:Female; D005523:Food Supply; D005638:Fruit; D006285:Health Planning; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012574:Schools; D014675:Vegetables