Work

Mothers' Perspectives on Physical Activity Co‐Participation With Young Children: Examining Thoughts and Racial Differences

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While mothers have an important role in shaping their children's physical activity (PA) behaviours, their participation in PA with their young child is limited. This study aimed to understand mothers' perceptions of co-participation of PA (co-PA) with their young child and compared these perceptions between White and Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC) mothers. METHODS: Thirty mothers (White: n = 14; BIPOC: n = 16) with a 2-to-5-year-old child were interviewed about their current co-PA interactions with their child. A thematic analysis approach was used to determine themes and subthemes for all mothers and by racial category. RESULTS: Co-PA was important within a technological society as it allowed for bonding time, educational opportunities and healthier lifestyles. Mothers' thoughts about co-PA before the activity were negative, but positive afterwards. A unique barrier was adapting to the child's age and mood. Mothers also noted the availability of places to be active as a barrier and facilitator. A novel theme discussed by the mothers was the social aspect that co-PA provided. A few differences in the importance of subthemes emerged between the racial categories. White mothers, more often described co-PA as providing learning opportunities, whereas BIPOC mothers often said co-PA allowed them to model that PA was important to do. Regarding co-PA barriers, White mothers noted distractions due to screens, whereas BIPOC mothers mentioned inadequate resources. Finally, regarding the social aspects of co-PA, more BIPOC mothers highlighted the importance of co-PA for motivating others to be active. CONCLUSION: Overall, the perceptions regarding co-PA in this diverse group of mothers were similar; however, some key differences in the importance of co-PA existed between White and BIPOC mothers. Co-PA's social aspect and the differences between racial groups should be considered when aligning interventions to fit the needs and preferences of subgroups of mothers to improve co-PA.

Source: Child Care Health and Development

DOI: 10.1111/cch.70183

Authors: Kristen Cook, Deirdre Dlugonski, Linda E. May, Thomas D. Raedeke, Katrina D. DuBose

Institutions: East Carolina University, University of Kentucky

Language: English

Topic: Physical Activity and Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being, Gender equality

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,850