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Boosting Kids' Health with After-School Activities

Boosting Kids\' Health with After-School Activities

Introduction

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, children's routines were disrupted, leading to concerns about their cognitive, social, and emotional health. The study titled "The Effect of an After-School Physical Activity Program on Children’s Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nova Scotia" provides valuable insights into how after-school programs can support children's well-being during such challenging times.

Research Insights

The study, conducted in Nova Scotia, Canada, assessed the impact of the Build Our Kids’ Success (BOKS) program on children's health. Parents of children participating in BOKS reported their perceptions of their children's cognitive function, peer and family relationships, life satisfaction, physical activity, sleep, positive affect, and global health. The findings revealed that the BOKS program had a protective effect on children's health behaviors, maintaining them within normal limits despite the pandemic's challenges.

Key Findings

Implications for Practitioners

For practitioners, these findings highlight the importance of incorporating structured physical activity into children's routines, especially during periods of disruption. Here are some actionable steps:

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of such programs on children's health. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or initiate studies that delve deeper into the relationship between physical activity and children's cognitive and emotional development.

Conclusion

The BOKS program's success in maintaining children's health during the pandemic underscores the vital role of physical activity in child development. By implementing similar programs, practitioners can help safeguard children's well-being, even in challenging circumstances.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Effect of an After-School Physical Activity Program on Children’s Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nova Scotia.


Citation: Caldwell, H. A. T., Miller, M. B., Tweedie, C., Zahavich, J. B. L., Cockett, E., & Rehman, L. (2022). The effect of an after-school physical activity program on children’s cognitive, social, and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nova Scotia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(4), 2401. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042401
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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