Mothers’ perception of childhood injuries, child supervision and care practices for children 0–5 years in a peri-urban area in Central Uganda; implications for prevention of childhood injuries

BACKGROUND: Injuries are a major concern in childhood. They are especially associated with high morbidity, disability and death in low-income countries. This study aimed at describing mothers’ perceptions, child supervision and care practices for children 0–5 years old and how these influence prevention of childhood injuries among children in peri-urban areas of Wakiso district, Uganda. METHODS: In this qualitative study, 10 in-depth interviews and 4 focus group discussions were held with mothers of children aged 0–5 years living in peri-urban areas of Wakiso district, Uganda. The interviews were audio recorded in the local language (Luganda). The audios were transcribed verbatim and later translated into English. We conducted thematic analysis for transcripts from the focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. RESULTS: Most respondents considered injuries as inevitable events among children, although, they acknowledged the impact of injuries on children’s health. Close child supervision was highlighted as key in preventing injuries. Hostile situations that place children at increased risk of injuries in this setting include: lack of adult supervision, harsh punishments and lack of safe play areas. CONCLUSION: Our study highlights the different aspects of child care in low resource settings which put children at an increased risk of injuries. Injury prevention programs for children living in low resource settings should thus be aimed towards improving caregivers’ perceptions towards injuries, child supervision, care practices and the children play environment.