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Ziegeldorf A, Schoene D, Fatum A, Brauer K, Wulff H. Associations of family socioeconomic indicators and physical activity of primary school-aged children: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2247. [PMID: 39160508 PMCID: PMC11331658 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19174-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family socioeconomic indicators (education, occupation, and household income) are key determinants influencing children's physical activity (PA). This study aims to systematically review the current research about the association between family socioeconomic indicators and PA among primary school-aged children and to quantify the distribution of reported associations by childs' and parents' sex and according to analysis and assessment methods. METHODS A systematic literature research in multiple scientific databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SPORTDiscus and ERIC) was performed for literature published between 1st January 2010 and 31st March 2022. Only studies reporting statistical associations between an SES indicator of at least one parent (education, occupation, income, or an SES index) and different types and intensities of PA in primary school-aged children (6 to 12 years) were included in the analysis. The distributions of the reported associations were evaluated across and differentiated by sub-group analysis of assessment methods (objectively measured vs. self-reported PA) and analysis methods (univariate vs. multivariate models). RESULTS Overall, 93 studies reported in 77 publications were included in this review. Most of the studies were conducted in Europe and used self-reports (questionnaires) to assess PA. Most studies used only a single SES indicator (commonly maternal education), and only two studies calculated an SES index. The majority of the studies focused on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), total physical activity (TPA), and organized physical activity (OPA). Results showed predominantly positive associations between SES indicators and OPA. In contrast, results regarding different intensities of daily PA (TPA, LPA, MPA, MVPA, VPA, LTPA) were heterogeneous, with overwhelmingly no associations. CONCLUSION Overall, the results expand the knowledge about the association between family socioeconomic indicators and children's PA and disprove the hypothesis of a clear positive association. However, large multicenter studies are lacking using a real SES index as a predictor and analyzing gender-specific multivariate models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ziegeldorf
- Institut for Execise and Public Health, Faculty for Sports Science, University Leipzig, Jahnallee 59, 04109, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Daniel Schoene
- Department of Clinical Gerontology and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Robert Bosch Hospital, Auerbachstr. 110, 70376, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute of Radiology, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich Alexander University, Erlangen-Nürnberg, Maximiliansplatz 1, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alisa Fatum
- Institut for Execise and Public Health, Faculty for Sports Science, University Leipzig, Jahnallee 59, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katharina Brauer
- Institut for Execise and Public Health, Faculty for Sports Science, University Leipzig, Jahnallee 59, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hagen Wulff
- Institut for Sports Pedagogy, Faculty for Sports Science, University Leipzig, Jahnallee 59, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
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Mead E, Peden AE, Angell B, Macniven R. Challenges to young children's swimming lesson participation in New South Wales, Australia. Inj Prev 2024:ip-2024-045285. [PMID: 38991716 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2024-045285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child swimming lessons are a key intervention for drowning prevention; however, participation has been severely affected by COVID-19 restrictions and cost-of-living challenges. To encourage re-engagement, the New South Wales government began providing A$100 swimming lesson vouchers. Parent/carers of eligible preschool-aged children were asked to complete a survey during voucher creation. This study aimed to examine pre-existing challenges to lesson participation among families who had not participated in the preceding 12 months. METHODS Cross-sectional data from parent/carer surveys completed between December 2021 and June 2022 were analysed. Binary logistic models analysed associations between sociodemographic factors and answered affirmatively to one or more challenges to participation from a predefined list. RESULTS Of 221 218 vouchers created, 79 553 parent/carers (36%) indicated that their child had not participated in swimming lessons in the last 12 months and responded to the question about participation challenges. Parent/carers of children with disabilities or residing in low socioeconomic areas had higher odds of indicating cost was a challenge while regional/remote families had over five times higher odds of indicating swim school availability difficulties. Families speaking a non-English language at home had over 2.5 times higher odds of thinking that their child was too young for swimming lessons, higher odds of thinking swimming lessons were not important and higher odds of indicating that COVID-19 had challenged participation. CONCLUSION These findings highlight how different population groups experience challenges to participation in swimming lessons. Alleviating costs and increasing lesson availability is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwina Mead
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amy E Peden
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Blake Angell
- The George Insitute of Global Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rona Macniven
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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3
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Högman J, Wagnsson S, Bellander S. Implementing a free lending of sports and leisure equipment service: a cross-sectional survey exploring user characteristics, utilization patterns, and significance among children and youth. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1826. [PMID: 38982320 PMCID: PMC11232254 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19339-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The escalating costs of sports equipment, coupled with socioeconomic disparities, hinder children's participation in physical activities. The Leisure Equipment Library (LEL), a unique service in Sweden, addresses this challenge by providing free equipment lending. This study investigated the significance of providing free lending of sports and recreational equipment for children's and youth's opportunities to engage in physical activities during leisure time. METHOD Utilizing a cross-sectional survey during the summer-2022 period, the study is based on data from 427 LEL users aged 7 to 25 years. User characteristics (demography, socioeconomic status, physical activity profiles), equipment usage patterns and perceived significance are also analyzed. The findings are discussed using the concept of consumer-brand identification. RESULTS The results showed that LEL reaches a broad and diverse group of children and young people in terms of gender, age, socioeconomic status, and physical activity profile. The borrowed equipment, primarily used for play and recreation, serves as an essential resource for children and youths and, in particular, for those with low socioeconomic status. LEL is considered highly important by all user groups, with a majority emphasizing its significance in facilitating leisure activities. CONCLUSIONS The study suggests LEL's success lies in its accessibility and that users identify with the brand of LEL. Users perceive LEL as a service catering to various recreational needs rather than sports, fostering inclusivity. The localization of stores in various types of areas, combined with high-quality products, enable children and young people from different socioeconomic areas to use the service. LEL's success hinges on maintaining a positive brand image and promoting a recreation-oriented identity. Opportunities exist to strengthen emotional bonds with users, enhance branding strategies, and position LEL as a valuable resource for inclusive recreational activities. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of free lending services, such as LEL, to bridge socioeconomic gaps in the promotion of physical activity among children and young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Högman
- Department for Educational Work, Sport Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden.
| | - Stefan Wagnsson
- Department for Educational Work, Sport Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Bellander
- Department for Educational Work, Sport Science, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
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Mathieu E, Grunseit AC, Foley BC, Reece LJ. Junior parkrun pilot in Australia: A real world evaluation. Health Promot J Austr 2024; 35:734-743. [PMID: 37771130 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Regular physical activity is important for children's health. Parkrun supports communities to deliver free, weekly, 5 km events in 22 countries around the world and is the largest physical activity model delivered at scale in the world. Junior parkrun aims to encourage children aged 4-14 years to be active outdoors through providing safe, cost-free and non-competitive weekly timed walk, run or jog over a 2-km distance. The aim of this study is to evaluate the junior parkrun pilot in Australia. METHODS A process evaluation was conducted using routinely collected data of junior parkrun participants, as well as a self-completed questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 1827 children had registered and participated in at least one junior parkrun over the course of the pilot period. Participants had, on average, attended 10% of the junior parkrun events including and subsequent to their first participation by the end of the study period. Majority of parents (61%) said that junior parkrun had increased their child's physical activity either a little or a lot, and most agreed or strongly agreed that junior parkrun was fun (90%), enjoyable (91%), energising (85%) and challenging (70%). CONCLUSION The junior parkrun pilot appears to show promise in Australia for enabling children to engage in physical activity, in their local communities in a fun and inclusive way. SO WHAT Parkrun junior can co-exist with other organised sports programs; however, it can also specifically target those not participating in any sports, given the high levels of enjoyment in a non-competitive, non-team environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Mathieu
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anne C Grunseit
- Faculty of Health, School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bridget C Foley
- Sydney School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lindsey J Reece
- Sydney School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, Prevention Research Collaboration, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Jayasinghe S, Hills AP. Strategies to Improve Physical Activity and Nutrition Behaviours in Children and Adolescents: A Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3370. [PMID: 37571307 PMCID: PMC10420868 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite widespread acknowledgement of the multifarious health benefits of physical activity (PA), including prevention and control of obesity, an overwhelming majority of children and adolescents are not sufficiently active to realise such benefits. Concurrently, young people are significantly impacted by the rapid global rise of sedentarism, and suboptimal dietary patterns during key phases of development. Regrettably, the cumulative effects of unhealthy behaviours during the growing years predisposes young people to the early stages of several chronic conditions, including obesity. Clear and consistent approaches are urgently needed to improve eating and activity behaviours of children and adolescents. Based on existing evidence of "best bets" to prevent and control obesity and its comorbidities, we present a set of non-negotiable strategies as a 'road map' to achieving prevention and improving the health of children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew P. Hills
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia;
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Macniven R, Angell B, Srinivasan N, Awati K, Chatman J, Peden AE. Evaluation of the First Lap learn to swim voucher programme: protocol. Inj Prev 2023; 29:188-194. [PMID: 36344270 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2022-044711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Swimming skills are an evidence-based component of drowning prevention. However, in Australia, many children miss out on learn to swim education. Voucher programmes may reduce swimming lesson cost and increase participation, especially among priority populations. The First Lap voucher programme provides two New South Wales state government-funded $100 vouchers for parents/carers of preschool children to contribute to swimming lesson costs. This evaluation aims to determine the effectiveness of the programme in meeting objectives of increasing preschool-aged children participating in learn to swim programmes and building parent/carer knowledge and awareness of the importance of preschool-aged children learning to swim. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A programme logic model was developed to explain the inputs, activities and intended outputs, and outcomes, which guided this mixed-methods evaluation design of quantitative and qualitative analysis within an impact/outcome evaluation. Baseline sociodemographic registration data will be provided by the parent/carer of each child participant and linked to swim school provider data on voucher redemption. Data will be collected on voucher use, knowledge, and attitudes to swimming lessons at registration and across two surveys. An economic evaluation will assess programme cost-effectiveness. CONCLUSION This evaluation will determine impacts on participation rates in learn to swim programmes, particularly within priority populations. It will examine whether the programme has influenced attitudes and motivations of parents and carers toward learn to swim programmes and water safety, whether the programme has impacted or enhanced the ability of the aquatics sector to deliver learn to swim programmes and assess its cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rona Macniven
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Blake Angell
- The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nivi Srinivasan
- New South Wales Government, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kailash Awati
- New South Wales Government, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Chatman
- New South Wales Government, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amy E Peden
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Foley BC, Turner N, Owen KB, Cushway D, Nguyen J, Reece LJ. "It Goes Hand in Hand with Us Trying to Get More Kids to Play" Stakeholder Experiences in a Sport and Active Recreation Voucher Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4081. [PMID: 36901093 PMCID: PMC10001936 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Vouchers that reduce the cost of sport and active recreation participation have been shown to increase children's and adolescent's physical activity levels. Yet, the influence of government-led voucher programs on the capacity of sport and active recreation organisations is unclear. This qualitative study explored the experiences of stakeholders in the sport and recreation sector that were engaged in implementing the New South Wales (NSW) Government's Active Kids voucher program in Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 sport and active recreation providers. Interview transcriptions were analysed by a multidisciplinary team using the Framework method. Overall, participants reported that the Active Kids voucher program was an acceptable intervention to address the cost barrier to participation for children and adolescents. Three main steps influenced the capacity of organisations to deliver their sport and recreation programs and the voucher program: (1) Implementation priming-alignment of the intervention aims with stakeholder priorities and early information sharing, (2) Administrative ease-enhanced technology use and establishment of simple procedures, and (3) Innovation impacts-enablement of staff and volunteers to address barriers to participation for their participants. Future voucher programs should include strategies to enhance the capacity of sport and active recreation organisations to meet program guidelines and increase innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget C. Foley
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Natalie Turner
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Katherine B. Owen
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - David Cushway
- Office of Sport, New South Wales Government, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Nguyen
- Office of Sport, New South Wales Government, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127, Australia
| | - Lindsey J. Reece
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Drummond M, Drummond C, Elliott S, Prichard I, Pennesi JL, Lewis LK, Bailey C, Bevan N. Girls and Young Women in Community Sport: A South Australian Perspective. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 3:803487. [PMID: 35098122 PMCID: PMC8795084 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.803487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Girls' and young women's engagement and disengagement in physical activity has been well documented in Western culture. Sport plays a pivotal role in the development of behaviours that promote physical activity, particularly through commitment to team and individual goal attainment, socialisation, and feelings of belonging and self-identity. Community sport in Australia is the dominant pathway into state, national, and elite international competition. The importance of community sport in the lives of girls and young women cannot be overstated, irrespective of individual long-term sporting goals. Indeed, the dropout rate of girls in sports, like many other western cultures is significant and is certainly disproportionate to the numbers of boys who drop out. The present study aims to examine the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental influences on community sporting pathways for girls and young women. Using a mixed-methods design, we include survey data from 2,189 high-school students (aged 12–18 years) and focus group and individual interview data from a subset of 37 high-school students, parents, and teachers, across metropolitan Adelaide, South Australia. The study included an examination of sporting practises and insights of male sport participants from the same age groups to juxtapose the findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding of girls' and young women's community sporting involvement. Parents and teachers were also included within the participant cohort to provide a comprehensive perspective. The results highlight the challenges that girls face with respect to engagement and disengagement in sport and particular points throughout their adolescent years. Recommendations are provided to help mitigate potential attrition of girls in sport in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murray Drummond
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, SHAPE Research Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Murray Drummond
| | - Claire Drummond
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sam Elliott
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, SHAPE Research Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ivanka Prichard
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jamie-Lee Pennesi
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Lucy K. Lewis
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Christopher Bailey
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, SHAPE Research Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Nadia Bevan
- Faculty of Arts, School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VI, Australia
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Measuring the Economic Impact of COVID-19 on the UK’s Leisure and Sport during the 2020 Lockdown. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132413865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This research evaluates the effect of the SARS-CoV2 pandemic on sport Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and consumer expenditure in the leisure sector in the United Kingdom (UK). The leisure sector is divided into leisure at home and away from home, examining in this way the different patterns that emerged because of the national lockdown in 2020. The effect on sport GDP is examined using the Office for National Statistics (ONS) surveys and the UK Sport Satellite Account (SSA). The study found that, because of its reliance on human contact, sport GDP is likely to decline by more than twice the rate of the overall economy. Furthermore, this finding is consistent with the 2020 consumer expenditure on leisure that shows increases in spending on home leisure but also a huge decline in spending on out-of-home entertainment. The decline in GDP is extremely likely to put pressure on profit margins and hence threaten the survival of private enterprises, raising issues of sustainability under conditions of a pandemic. Increases in long-term public funding for reducing sport inequalities should be considered along with short-term relief packages for the sport sector. Additional policy suggestions are offered to address these issues.
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Hayba N, Shi Y, Allman-Farinelli M. Enabling Better Physical Activity and Screen Time Behaviours for Adolescents from Middle Eastern Backgrounds: Semi-Structured Interviews with Parents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312787. [PMID: 34886513 PMCID: PMC8657648 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The unrelenting obesity pandemic in Middle Eastern (ME) adolescents living in Australia warrants culturally responsive and locally engineered interventions. Given the influence of parents on the lifestyle behaviours of adolescents, this qualitative study aimed to capture the opinions of ME parents on the barriers and enablers to sufficient physical activity and limiting screen time behaviours in adolescents. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 ME parents (female) aged 35–59 years old, most of whom resided in lower socioeconomic areas (n = 19). A reflexive thematic analysis using the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behaviour model was performed for coding. Parents voiced confidence in their knowledge of the importance of physical activity and limiting screen time but were less optimistic in their ability to enable change in behaviours, especially for older adolescents without outside support. Despite adolescents having the necessary skills to engage in a wide array of sports, the parents admitted deep fears regarding the safety of the social environment and restricted their children’s independent mobility. Gender differences were noted, with parents reporting older girls expressing disinterest in sports and having limited physical opportunities to participate in sports at school. It may be that a community-based participatory framework is needed to improve physical activity opportunities and to address specific physical, social, and cultural barriers.
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Do Crowding-Out Effects Explain the Low Effect of a Health Promotion Intervention among Young People at a Vocational School? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111127. [PMID: 34769645 PMCID: PMC8583595 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, school-based interventions have increasingly been used as a strategy to promote good eating habits and physical activity among young people at school. However, little is known about the effect that this kind of public involvement has on the overall behavior of young people. Economists refer to the existence of a crowding-out effect when public sector engagement in influencing behavior is counteracted by behaviors at the individual level. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a health promotion intervention program among young people at a vocational school on the overall behavior of the students and consider whether a crowding-out effect existed when it came to health behavior. This study used data from the Gearing up the Body (GUB) intervention that was carried out at the vocational school of Uddannelsescenter Holstebro, Denmark. The study included 130 students from two vocational programs. Answers were collected from survey questions in three waves. Our results showed that intervening in the school setting had the intended impact on physical activity but an unintended impact on eating behavior. In the GUB study, we found signs of countervailing behaviors in and out of school that need to be further explored.
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The Use of a Nonrefundable Tax Credit to Increase Children's Participation in Physical Activity in Alberta, Canada. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:1067-1073. [PMID: 34186513 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Potential income disparities were examined in the (1) awareness and uptake of the Children's Fitness Tax Credit (CFTC), and (2) physical activity (PA) of children from families who did and did not claim the credit in Alberta, Canada in 2012 and 2014. METHODS Secondary analyses of 3 cross-sectional data sets of grade 5 students (10-11 y) were performed, including Alberta Project Promoting healthy Living for Everyone Schools 2012 (N = 1037), and Raising healthy Eating and Active Living Kids Alberta 2012 (N = 2676), and 2014 (N = 3125). Parents reported whether they claimed the CFTC in the previous year, their education and household income, and their child's gender and PA. Children self-reported their PA from the previous 7 days. In Alberta Project Promoting healthy Living for Everyone Schools, children also wore pedometers. Analyses adjusted for clustering within schools and demographic factors. RESULTS Higher income families (≥$50,000/y) were more likely to be aware of and to have claimed the CFTC compared with low-income families (<$50,000/y). The CFTC was associated with organized PA with larger associations for higher-income families (odds ratio = 9.03-9.32, Ps < .001) compared with lower-income families (odds ratio = 3.27-4.05, Ps < .01). No associations existed for overall PA or pedometer steps with the CFTC. CONCLUSIONS Income disparities exist in the awareness, uptake, and potential impact of the CFTC. Tax credits are not effective in promoting overall PA.
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Children of Smoking and Non-Smoking Households' Perceptions of Physical Activity, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Exercise. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8070552. [PMID: 34206729 PMCID: PMC8307148 DOI: 10.3390/children8070552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has shown secondhand tobacco smoke to be detrimental to children’s health. This qualitative study aimed to explore children from low socioeconomic status (SES) families and their reasons for being physically active, attitudes towards physical activity (PA), fitness and exercise, perceived barriers and facilitators to PA, self-perceptions of fitness and physical ability, and how these differ for children from smoking and non-smoking households. A total of 38 children (9–11 years; 50% female; 42% smoking households) from the deprived areas of North West England participated in focus groups (n = 8), which were analysed by utilizing thematic analysis. The findings support hypothesised mediators of PA in children including self-efficacy, enjoyment, perceived benefit, and social support. Fewer than a quarter of all children were aware of the PA guidelines with varying explanations, while the majority of children perceived their own fitness to be high. Variances also emerged between important barriers (e.g., sedentary behaviour and environmental factors) and facilitators (e.g., psychological factors and PA opportunity) for children from smoking and non-smoking households. This unique study provided a voice to children from low SES and smoking households and these child perspectives could be used to create relevant and effective strategies for interventions to improve PA, fitness, and health.
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Caperchione CM, Stolp S, Fransen J, English M, Wallace L, Harris D, Ashton JF. It doesn't hurt to TRY - Experiences of youths participating in a TRYathlon event series. Health Promot J Austr 2021; 33:379-385. [PMID: 34170597 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Running since 1999, the Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon (SWKT) is the world's largest triathlon series for children and adolescents up to 16 years. This report seeks to describe participants of the TRYathlon and their perceptions of the event. METHODS An online survey was made available to Australian parents/guardians of participants enrolled in the 2020 SWKT. Organisational data was also employed to describe the reach of the SWKT since its inception. RESULTS Parents/guardians (n = 568) reported that the average child age was 9.12 (SD = 1.95, range = 6-16) and 58.6% were male. Parents/guardians identified 12 children as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (2.0%) and 87 (14.6%) spoke a language other than English. The majority of parents/guardians rated their child's physical activity (PA) competencies as pretty good, or really good, for cycling (87.5%), swimming (80.9%) and running (79.5%). Most parents (66.0%) stated that their child was glowing with pride after completing the event, enjoyed or really enjoyed the event (98.8%), and thought their child would maintain their PA levels following the event (72.9%). CONCLUSIONS The SWKT series has demonstrated longevity and an ability to reach a large number of participants, providing opportunities to build health promotion awareness. Importantly the event instils a sense of confidence and pride related to PA competency in its participants; however, its long-term effectiveness requires further exploration. SO WHAT?: Mass participation events such as SWKT could be incorporated into larger health promotion strategies to encourage childhood PA and foster healthy physical and psychosocial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Caperchione
- Human Performance Research Centre, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sean Stolp
- Human Performance Research Centre, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Job Fransen
- Human Performance Research Centre, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Madeleine English
- Human Performance Research Centre, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lee Wallace
- Human Performance Research Centre, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Harris
- Sanitarium Development and Innovation, Sanitarium Health Food Company, Cooranbong, Australia
| | - John F Ashton
- Sanitarium Development and Innovation, Sanitarium Health Food Company, Cooranbong, Australia
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15
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Owen KB, Bellew B, Foley BC, Bauman A, Reece LJ. Body mass Index of children and adolescent participants in a voucher program designed to incentivise participation in sport and physical activity: A cross-sectional study. Prev Med Rep 2021; 22:101349. [PMID: 34141526 PMCID: PMC8186661 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been limited population-level success in tackling overweight and obesity. The Active Kids program is a universal intervention that aims to increase participation in structured physical activity and sport among children and adolescents in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. This study examined the prevalence of overweight and obesity across subgroups and by social disadvantage in this large broadly representative sample. A cross-sectional study was conducted including all children (n = 671,375) who registered for an Active Kids Program voucher in 2018. The child's height and weight were obtained from an online registration form. Among children and adolescents who registered in the Active Kids Program, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 17.2% and 7.6%, respectively. A large number of children and adolescents who lived in the most disadvantaged areas (n = 99,583; 14.8%) registered for the program. There was a clear socio-economic gradient for obesity prevalence across areas of increasing disadvantage, with children and adolescents living in the most disadvantaged area being 1.87 (95% CIs 1.82, 1.93) times more likely to be overweight or obese. The Active Kids program successfully reached a substantial proportion of children who are overweight and obese from socio-economically disadvantaged areas, providing financial support and opportunities for these children to participate in structured sport and physical activity. However, the program did not reach all children, and additional physical activity promotion strategies may be needed in a comprehensive approach. Nonetheless, these findings support government investment in reaching children who are overweight or obese with large-scale programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine B. Owen
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre,
School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of
Sydney, Australia
| | - Bill Bellew
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre,
School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of
Sydney, Australia
| | - Bridget C. Foley
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre,
School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of
Sydney, Australia
| | - Adrian Bauman
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre,
School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of
Sydney, Australia
| | - Lindsey J. Reece
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre,
School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of
Sydney, Australia
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Reilly K, Bauman A, Reece L, Lecathelinais C, Sutherland R, Wolfenden L. Evaluation of a voucher scheme to increase child physical activity in participants of a school physical activity trial in the Hunter region of Australia. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:570. [PMID: 33757472 PMCID: PMC7986265 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10588-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global population data suggest that physical activity levels in children remain unacceptably low. Improved participation in organised sport has been recommended by the WHO as one strategy to improve population levels of physical activity. In 2018, in the state of New South Wales, Australia, the government introduced the Active Kids scheme, to help families meet the cost of getting children into organized sport. The aim of this study is to describe the uptake of Active Kids and assess the impact of the scheme on organized sport participation and child physical activity in a region of New South Wales. METHODS A pragmatic longitudinal study was undertaken of parents/carers from primary school aged children (5-12 years) in the Hunter region of NSW, Australia. Baseline data were collected between Oct-Dec 2017, with follow-up 12 months later. A telephone survey occurred at both time points, asking questions regarding registration and redemption of an Active Kids voucher for their child, child participation in organised sports and child physical activity levels. RESULTS Of the 974 parents/carers who consented to participate, 511 (52.5%) completed the telephone surveys at both time points. A very large proportion of children (n = 454, 89.0%) were reported by their parents/carers at baseline as meeting the minimum physical activity guideline of 60 min per day. Of participating parents/carers in this study, 407 (96.0%) reported redeeming an Active Kids voucher. Children who redeemed a voucher had three times the odds to participate in organized team sports from baseline to follow-up (p = 0.009). Sub group analyses identified that females who redeemed a voucher had four times the odds to participate in organized team sports (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS Given the already active nature of this sample, no significant improvements in physical activity levels were noted, but the positive contribution community sport can have on health and wellbeing amongst children is reinforced. Whilst voucher schemes can address financial burdens across all socio-economic groups, more population targeting is needed to deliver voucher schemes to the most disadvantaged and inactive segments of the population in order to increase physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Reilly
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Hunter New England Population Health, Wallsend, NSW, 2287, Australia.
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, 2305, Australia.
| | - Adrian Bauman
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Lindsey Reece
- SPRINTER research group, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | | | - Rachel Sutherland
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter New England Population Health, Wallsend, NSW, 2287, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Luke Wolfenden
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter New England Population Health, Wallsend, NSW, 2287, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, 2305, Australia
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Virgona N, Foley BC, Ryan H, Nolan M, Reece L. 'One hundred dollars is a big help, but to continue, it's a challenge': A qualitative study exploring correlates and barriers to Active Kids voucher uptake in western Sydney. Health Promot J Austr 2021; 33:7-18. [PMID: 33570224 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Active Kids voucher is a universal, state-wide voucher program, provided by the New South Wales (NSW) Government, Office of Sport. All school-aged children in NSW are eligible to receive a voucher to reduce registration costs of structured physical activity programs. This study explores reasons behind lower uptake among children who are overweight or obese, from cultural and linguistically diverse families and those living in low socio-economic areas. METHODS Participants were recruited through a convenience sample of parent/carers who participated in the NSW Health Go4Fun program. Qualitative data were collected using focus groups. The Framework method was adapted for the analysis, taking an interpretive phenomenological approach. RESULTS Study participants (n = 54) were all parents of children who were overweight or obese from both low and high socio-economic status (SES). Most reported speaking a primary language other than English at home (65%). Parents were mostly aware of the Active Kids program (91%) and reported that the voucher had a positive impact on their children's participation in structured physical activity. A range of socio-ecological factors, in addition to activity cost, influenced whether parents were able to use an Active Kids voucher and participate in structured physical activity. CONCLUSIONS The Active Kids voucher does not alleviate all barriers, particularly for families living in low socio-economic areas. Engagement of this population in structured physical activities using the Active Kids vouchers could be strengthened through the implementation of effective interventions which comprehensively address the remaining barriers, such as access and flexibility of programs with local stakeholders and activity providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Virgona
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, Gungurra (Building 68) Cumberland Hospital, North Parramatta, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridget C Foley
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Ryan
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, Gungurra (Building 68) Cumberland Hospital, North Parramatta, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Nolan
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, Gungurra (Building 68) Cumberland Hospital, North Parramatta, NSW, Australia
| | - Lindsey Reece
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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18
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Foley BC, Owen KB, Bauman AE, Bellew W, Reece LJ. Effects of the Active Kids voucher program on children and adolescents' physical activity: a natural experiment evaluating a state-wide intervention. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:22. [PMID: 33423663 PMCID: PMC7798231 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10060-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an urgent need for scaled-up effective interventions which overcome barriers to health-enhancing physical activity for children and adolescents. In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, the state government implemented a universal voucher program, 'Active Kids' to support the cost of structured physical activity registration for school-enrolled children aged 4.5-18 years old. The objective of this study was to understand the effects a financial incentive intervention delivered in a real-world setting has on children and adolescent's physical activity participation. METHOD In 2018, all children and adolescents registered for an Active Kids voucher provided sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity and research consent. This prospective cohort study used an online survey with validated items to measure physical activity and other personal and social factors in children and adolescents who used an Active Kids voucher. Generalized linear mixed models were used to examine changes from registration to after voucher use at ≤8 weeks, 9-26 weeks and ≥ 6 months. RESULTS Study participants reported increasing their days achieving physical activity guidelines from 4.0 days per week (95%CI 3.8, 4.2) at registration (n = 37,626 children) to 4.9 days per week (95%CI 4.7, 5.1) after 6 months (n = 14,118 children). Increased physical activity was observed for all sociodemographic population groups. The voucher-specific activity contributed 42.4% (95%CI 39.3, 45.5) to the total time children participated in structured physical activities outside of school. Children and adolescents who increased to, or maintained, high levels of activity were socially supported to be active, had active parent/caregivers, had better concentration and were overall happier than their low-active counterparts. CONCLUSION The Active Kids program significantly increased children's physical activity levels and these increases continued over a six-month period. The Active Kids voucher program shows promise as a scaled-up intervention to increase children and adolescents' physical activity participation. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12618000897268 , approved May 29th, 2018 - Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget C Foley
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Katherine B Owen
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Adrian E Bauman
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - William Bellew
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Lindsey J Reece
- SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research Group), Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
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19
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Reece LJ, Owen K, Foley B, Rose C, Bellew B, Bauman A. Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on children's physical activity levels in NSW, Australia. Health Promot J Austr 2020; 32:365-366. [PMID: 33201543 PMCID: PMC7753276 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey J Reece
- SPRINTER Research Group, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine Owen
- SPRINTER Research Group, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridget Foley
- SPRINTER Research Group, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Catriona Rose
- SPRINTER Research Group, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bill Bellew
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adrian Bauman
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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20
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Foley BC, Owen KB, Bellew W, Wolfenden L, Reilly K, Bauman AE, Reece LJ. Physical Activity Behaviors of Children Who Register for the Universal, State-Wide Active Kids Voucher: Who Did the Voucher Program Reach? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5691. [PMID: 32781753 PMCID: PMC7460334 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Active Kids is a government-led, universal voucher program that aims to reduce the cost of participation in structured physical activity for all school-enrolled children in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. As part of the Active Kids program evaluation, this cross-sectional study examined the Active Kids' program's reach to children in NSW and their physical activity behaviors, before voucher use. Demographic registration data from all children (4.5-18 years old) who registered for an Active Kids voucher in 2018 (n = 671,375) were compared with Census data. Binary and multinomial regression models assessed which correlates were associated with meeting physical activity guidelines and participation in the sessions of structured physical activity. The Active Kids program attracted more than half (53%) of all eligible children in NSW. Children who spoke a primary language other than English at home, were aged 15-18 years old, lived in the most disadvantaged areas, and girls, were less likely to register. Of the registered children, 70% had attended structured physical activity sessions at least once a week during the previous 12 months, whilst 19% achieved physical activity guidelines. Active Kids achieved substantial population reach and has the potential to improve children's physical activity behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget C. Foley
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.B.O.); (W.B.); (A.E.B.); (L.J.R.)
| | - Katherine B. Owen
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.B.O.); (W.B.); (A.E.B.); (L.J.R.)
| | - William Bellew
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.B.O.); (W.B.); (A.E.B.); (L.J.R.)
| | - Luke Wolfenden
- The School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (L.W.); (K.R.)
| | - Kathryn Reilly
- The School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (L.W.); (K.R.)
| | - Adrian E. Bauman
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.B.O.); (W.B.); (A.E.B.); (L.J.R.)
| | - Lindsey J. Reece
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, D17 Charles Perkins Centre, Level 6, the Hub, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.B.O.); (W.B.); (A.E.B.); (L.J.R.)
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21
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Owen KB, Foley BC, Bauman A, Bellew B, Reece LJ. Parental awareness and engagement in the Active Kids program across socioeconomic groups. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 23:753-757. [PMID: 32061526 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In 2018, the New South Wales (NSW) Government implemented a State-wide program to reduce the cost barrier to organised sport and physical activity participation. We explored parent/carer's awareness and children's engagement in the Active Kids program across socioeconomic groups and used the NSW Population Health Survey (PHS) to validate engagement in the program. DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS Data were obtained from the 2018 NSW PHS and the Active Kids program registration database. We compared demographic characteristics of children who had registered for the program in the registration database with children in the weighted NSW PHS. Multinomial regression models were used to determine whether socioeconomic status was associated with parent/carer awareness and children's engagement in the program. RESULTS Parent/carer's in the most disadvantaged quartile were twice as likely to have never heard of the Active Kids program (OR: 2.04, 95% CIs 1.31, 3.16) or to have heard or the program but not registered (OR: 1.94, 95% CIs 1.26, 3.00), and more than twice as likely to have registered for a voucher, but not followed through and redeemed the voucher (OR: 2.68, 95% CIs 1.27, 5.63) compared with the least disadvantaged quartile. CONCLUSIONS The Active Kids program has provided financial support for organised sport and physical activity to a large number of children. However, there are still a substantial proportion of socially disadvantaged groups who are unaware or have not engaged in the program. Further targeted work is required to increase the awareness and engagement in the program for socially disadvantaged groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine B Owen
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Bridget C Foley
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Adrian Bauman
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - B Bellew
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Lindsey J Reece
- SPRINTER, Prevention Research Collaboration, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
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