Standardized development of the IDEFICS intervention and its implementation in Germany

The prevalence of overweight/obesity in childhood has also been rising at an alarming rate in Germany during recent years. Central components of successful intervention measures include the underpinning of the program with a theoretical model and the inclusion of several target groups as well as schools and kindergartens as whole units. Evaluation of the program is necessary for the development of evidence-based interventions. These central components are highlighted using the example of the development and implementation of the IDEFICS intervention. The IDEFICS intervention was developed using the intervention mapping protocol and aims for a healthy diet, more physical activity, and relaxation. For the implementation of the IDEFICS intervention, ten modules targeting different levels were developed. The implementation is illustrated using Germany as an example. Difficulties in the implementation arose due to unclear responsibilities and the necessary cultural adaption of internationally developed modules. However, the strengths (e. g., inclusion of the socially disadvantaged, the implementation in a school/kindergarten setting, and a scientific evaluation) also need to be stressed.