<![CDATA[Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem that leads to impaired physical growth and suboptimal cognitive development in children. At Karang Intan 2 Public Health Center, the prevalence of stunting in 2024 reached 49% (443 children), the highest in Banjar Regency. In Awang Bangkal Barat Village, the prevalence of stunting increased from 31.5% (48 children) in 2024 to 31.8% (50 children) in June 2025. Beyond nutritional intake, the quality of caregiving encompassing parenting practices, emotional support, and developmental stimulation plays a critical role in child growth and development. This study aimed to examine the association between caregiving quality, including parenting practices, emotional support, and developmental stimulation, and the incidence of stunting among children under five in Awang Bangkal Barat Village. Methods: A case-control study design was applied involving 100 respondents, consisting of 50 stunted children (cases) and 50 non-stunted children (controls), selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and height-for-age (H/A) measurements. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: Among the study population, 50 children were classified as stunted. Adequate parenting practices were reported in 55% of respondents, adequate emotional support in 51%, and adequate developmental stimulation in 54%. Significant associations were found between parenting practices (p=0,000; OR=5.06), emotional support (p=0,000; OR=11.23), and developmental stimulation (p=0,000; OR=6.73) and the incidence of stunting. Conclusion: The quality of caregiving, including parenting practices, emotional support, and developmental stimulation, was significantly associated with stunting among children under five. Strengthening caregiving practices is essential for stunting prevention efforts. Keywords: stunting, parenting practices, emotional support, developmental stimulation]]>
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