Document resource
Objectives Test the feasibility of a smartphone app, BebeApp, that provides child development advice in a rural area of Guatemala.Methods We conducted a pilot randomized trial to evaluate the feasibility of implementing BebeApp, an app delivering evidence-based, age-specific advice on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, sleep, and developmental support. The trial took place in Tecpán, Chimaltenango, with two groups: the intervention group used the app, while the control group received a printed child development advice sheet. Inclusion criteria: literate caregiver with an infant aged 0–28 days. A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted using the RE-AIM framework to assess usability, usefulness, and satisfaction through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews.Results Forty-one dyads were enrolled; 40 completed the study. Usability was acceptable, though no statistically significant differences were found between pre- and post-surveys. In interviews, caregivers reported initial difficulties using the app but gained confidence after a training session. Responses regarding usefulness and satisfaction were positive. Caregivers often noted that BebeApp was their only source of child development information outside their family.Conclusions Caregivers in Guatemala responded positively to BebeApp. Given the need for child development programs in low-income rural settings, apps may provide a feasible method to deliver services directly to caregivers.