The Relationship Between Maternal Knowledge Level and the Growth and Development of Infants Aged 6–12 Months at Gondokusuman I Public Health Center, Yogyakarta City

Abstract

Intoduction: Infancy at 6–12 months is a critical period of rapid growth and development. Maternal knowledge regarding nutrition, childcare, stimulation, and developmental monitoring contributes to optimal outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between maternal knowledge level and growth and development of infants aged 6–12 months at Gondokusuman I Public Health Center, Yogyakarta City. Method: This analytical observational study used a cross-sectional design and involved 53 mother–infant pairs selected through total sampling. Maternal knowledge was assessed using a questionnaire with a reported reliability coefficient of α=0.725, while infant growth and development were assessed using the study measurements and instruments. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test at α=0.05. Result and Discussion: Most mothers had good knowledge (41.5%). Normal infant growth accounted for 56.6%, while age-appropriate development accounted for 41.5%. Maternal knowledge was significantly associated with infant growth (p=0.01) and development (p=0.01). Better knowledge was linked to more appropriate childcare, nutritional provision, developmental stimulation, and routine monitoring. Conclusion: Maternal knowledge is associated with growth and development among infants aged 6–12 months. Strengthening maternal education and routine monitoring at primary health-care level is recommended to support optimal infant growth and development.