Can young children make active choices? Outcomes of a feasibility trial in 7-year-old children

Authors

Beth P. Hands Prof, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Dawne Larkin Dr, University of Western AustraliaFollow
Elizabeth Rose DrFollow
Helen Parker Prof, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Anne Smith Dr, Curtin University of TechnologyFollow

Publication Details

Hands, B. P., Larkin, D., Rose, E., Parker, H., & Smith, A. (2010). Can young children make active choices? Outcomes of a feasibility trial in 7-year-old children. Early Child Development and Care, 181 (5), 625-637.
https://doi.org/10.1080/03004431003717623

Abstract

This project evaluated the feasibility of a child-centred 24 week physical activity intervention. The Play5 strategy encourages children to choose to play vigorously five times a day for about as long as school recess. The 7-year-old children were randomised to control (n = 176) or intervention groups (n = 132). Data were collected at baseline and post intervention. Program evaluation included parent questionnaire, teacher records, and a 7-day pedometer record with a sub sample of children. The program was successful in increasing vigorous activity (p =.04), but did not impact on moderate or sedentary activities. Young children were able to choose to be active without parent or teacher direction.

Keywords

Peer-reviewed, children, physical activity, intervention, Play5, MVPA, play