Recorded presentation

Amelia J. Birney, MPH, CHES, Susan G. Brink, DrPH, Catherine A. Prahl, and Marguerite E. Beckley, CHES. HealthMark Multimedia, 1828 L Street NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC 20036, 202-265-0033 x203, abirney@healthmarkmm.com

Most sun exposure occurs before the age of 20 and adoption of protective measures in childhood can dramatically reduce the lifetime incidence of skin cancer and other UV-related damage. Adventures with the Shady Characters™ is a computer game for preschool-age children that teaches them the basics of sun protection: stay in the shade, dress for sun and use sunscreen. SunSafeCentral.com™ is a companion Web site for parents and child-care providers that offers free sun protection information and supplemental activities. Both products are available in English and Spanish. The Web site is written at or below an 8th grade reading level and the game is developmentally appropriate for children 3-5 years old with pre-reading skills. Early formative research indicated that: 1) 61% of child-care homes had computers for children's use in 2001; and 2) child-care providers' shade-seeking and sunscreen practices (83-88%) were more common than protective clothing practices (24-67%). Extensive usability testing with the target populations has produced tools that are enjoyable and engaging for the target audiences. The products will be tested using a two-group randomized field test in which the products are used in the home-based child-care setting for one month. Efficacy will be based on changes in knowledge and behavior among children 3-5 years old, as well as knowledge, self-efficacy and practice among child-care providers. Parents will provide data on children's behaviors and data to supplement provider self-reported practices. Field test results will be presented.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to

• List 3 potential problems and solutions associated with usability testing computer-based educational materials with children.
• Describe the effects of two multimedia sun protection educational products on preschoolers and child-care providers.

Keywords: Cancer Prevention, Internet Tools

Related Web page: www.SunSafeCentral.com

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: HealthMark Multimedia
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment

Recorded presentation