Digital Educational Game "O Jardim do Ferro": A Tool for the Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Childhood.

Abstract

Objective: To create and evaluate a digital educational game (DEG) for preschool children for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Methodology: The DEG software was developed by a multidisciplinary team, according to Chandler's methodology, in Engine Unity. The game is a 2D platformer, for Android, with three different phases. A quiz was developed for parents/caregivers about iron absorption and anemia. The quiz content was evaluated by experts. The evaluation of the game was carried out through a questionnaire applied in the school for children from 4 to 6 years of age. Results: For the construction of the game, programming, team planning, art, and soundtrack were necessary. The game was registered at the National Institute of Industrial Property. The quiz was evaluated by 14 experts and all questions had more than 80% agreement. The questionnaire was answered by 32 children with a mean age of 5.0 ± 0.7 years, and ∼70% evaluated the game positively. Thus, the acceptability of the software was favored by most players. Conclusion: The "O Jardim do Ferro" software, from its conception to evaluation, proved to be a promising tool to contribute to food and nutrition education actions, providing opportunities for the construction of knowledge about iron-rich foods for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in childhood.