Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose: To describe the contribution of preschool playground factors in explaining children’s step counts during outdoor play and to evaluate the effects of a preschool playground intervention. Methods: Preschool playground observations and pedometry during recess were carried out in 39 randomly selected preschools (415 boys and 368 girls; 5.3 ± 0.4 years old). To evaluate intervention effects accelerometer- based PA levels were registered in another sample of 40 preschools in a pre-post design: in 10 schools child-friendly markings were provided, in 10 schools active toys were provided, in 10 schools both interventions took place and 10 schools served as a control condition. Results: On average playgrounds provided space for 0.15 child per m2, markings were present on 24 of the 39 playgrounds, 20 playgrounds had height differences, the surface was partly soft in 20 schools, in 23 schools toys were available for minimum 10% of the children and in 21 preschools vegetation was present on the playground. PA during outdoor play was associated with children per m2, the number of supervising teachers, recess duration, and ground surface characteristics. In the evaluated pre-schools markings and availability of toys did not predict physical activity. However it was observed that mainly field markings were present and that the selection of available toys was often not optimal for physical activity promotion. Post- data of the intervention study are currently being collected and preliminary results will also be presented at the symposium. Conclusion: Playground modifications may activate pre-schoolers.
Source: Lirias
Language: English
Topic: Physical Activity and Health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2523741816