Affiliation:
1. University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI
2. University of Michigan Medical School Ann Arbor MI
3. Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI
4. Department of Pediatrics Medical College of Wisconsin Milwaukee WI
Abstract
ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDUnintentional injuries are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents in the United States. Traditional injury education interventions for children often are inaccessible due to cost and logistics in underserved communities, exacerbating injury disparities. A new approach is needed to close this gap for families with preschool children.CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEORYCollaborating with Head Start preschools optimizes engagement and accessibility to families in underserved communities. Involving caregivers and community organizations addresses the limitations of conventional interventions and community‐specific injury prevention concerns.IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITYPop‐up Safety Town offers a more affordable model for injury prevention education, particularly in underserved regions. The model's approach, using adaptable education, mobile and reusable materials, and volunteer staffing, offers greater potential for achieving sustainable impact in these underserved communities.CONCLUSIONSPop‐up Safety Town presents a novel upstream solution to address disparities in injury prevention education in underserved communities.
Funder
Michigan Health Endowment Fund
American Academy of Pediatrics