The U.S. Agency for International Development “Nurture” (USAID Nurture) project, led by Save the Children (SC) is aimed at contributing to a reduction in young child stunting. Over a three-year period, USAID Nurture will be implemented in all villages of six districts of two provinces in the central region of Lao PDR. The approach focuses on: improving maternal, infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN) and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) behaviors in households with pregnant women and children under two years; increasing access and use of quality nutrition and health services and WASH facilities and products; and strengthening the enabling environment, through strengthening multi-sectoral coordination and planning, particularly at provincial and district levels.

The purpose of this study is to learn with communities, families, and women about the barriers and facilitators to optimal adolescent nutrition, maternal nutrition, and a range of other factors as well as to explore gender dynamics related to this nutrition and WASH behaviors and the potential effect of project activities. The findings will guide and impact the NURTURE project’s Social and Behavior Change Communication strategy.