Introduction
After-school care programs have emerged as a pivotal setting for promoting healthy lifestyles among children. The research article "Canadian after-school care providers’ perceived role promoting healthy lifestyles: a focused ethnography" sheds light on the significant role care providers play in influencing children's health behaviors. This blog aims to guide practitioners in leveraging these insights to enhance their effectiveness in promoting healthy eating and physical activity.
The Role of After-School Care Providers
After-school care providers are uniquely positioned to impact children's health behaviors positively. The hours between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. present an opportune time for children to engage in healthy activities. The study highlights the critical influence care providers have in these settings, particularly through the School’s Out … Let’s Move (SOLMo) intervention. This initiative, guided by the comprehensive school health (CSH) framework, focused on serving healthy snacks and incorporating 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity.
Key Findings and Themes
The research identified five key themes that can inform practice:
- Enhanced Awareness: Care providers reported increased awareness and prioritization of healthy eating and physical activity.
- Improved Programming: The study found that structured programming and resources facilitated better health outcomes.
- Strong Relationships: The unique, long-term relationships care providers build with children enhance their ability to influence healthy behaviors.
- Collaborative Approach: Effective partnerships with schools and communities are crucial for resource sharing and support.
- Role Tension: Care providers often experience tension between their caregiving and educational roles, highlighting the need for recognition and support.
Practical Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners can take several steps to enhance their role in promoting healthy lifestyles:
- Prioritize Health Education: Regularly integrate discussions about healthy eating and physical activity into daily routines.
- Leverage Resources: Utilize available tools and materials to create engaging and educational activities.
- Build Strong Relationships: Foster trust and communication with children to effectively model and encourage healthy behaviors.
- Engage in Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local schools and organizations to access additional resources and support.
- Advocate for Recognition: Highlight the dual role of care providers to stakeholders to garner respect and support.
Encouraging Further Research
The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive health promotion approaches in after-school settings. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in further research to explore innovative strategies and interventions that can enhance their impact on children's health.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Canadian after-school care providers’ perceived role promoting healthy lifestyles: a focused ethnography.
