Understanding Pandemic-Induced Changes in Children's Activity Levels
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes in the daily routines of children worldwide, impacting their physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep patterns. A recent study titled On the Move or Barely Moving? Age-Related Changes in Physical Activity, Sedentary, and Sleep Behaviors by Weekday/Weekend Following Pandemic Control Policies provides valuable insights into these changes and highlights the importance of structured activities in promoting physical activity among children.
Key Findings from the Study
The study examined changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity (LPA), and sedentary behavior/sleep (SS) among children of different age groups during the pandemic. The findings reveal that:
- Middle schoolers experienced a significant decrease in weekday MVPA and an increase in sedentary behavior/sleep.
- Preschoolers and elementary schoolers showed less pronounced changes in their activity levels.
- Structured school-based activities play a crucial role in maintaining physical activity levels, especially for middle schoolers.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners working with children, these findings underscore the importance of incorporating structured physical activities into daily routines, particularly for older children who rely more on organized activities. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Promote At-Home Physical Activities: Encourage families to engage in physical activities together, such as family walks or home-based exercise routines.
- Utilize Online Resources: Leverage online platforms to provide guided physical activities that children can follow at home.
- Incorporate Movement into Learning: Integrate physical activities into learning sessions to keep children engaged and active.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides important insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of pandemic-related changes in children's physical activity. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing research and consider participating in studies that aim to understand and improve children's health outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: On the Move or Barely Moving? Age-Related Changes in Physical Activity, Sedentary, and Sleep Behaviors by Weekday/Weekend Following Pandemic Control Policies.
