Introduction
In the realm of child development, the role of physical activity is pivotal. The Copenhagen Consensus Conference 2016 has provided substantial insights into how physical activity can influence various aspects of children's and youths' lives, from fitness and health to cognitive functioning and social inclusion. This blog aims to distill the findings of the conference into actionable strategies for practitioners working with children, particularly in educational settings.
Theme 1: Fitness and Health
According to the conference, physical activity significantly impacts children's and youths' fitness and health. Cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness levels are strong predictors of future health outcomes, such as cardiometabolic diseases. Practitioners can leverage this data by incorporating vigorous and moderate-intensity exercises into school curriculums and extracurricular activities. This approach not only enhances physical health but also serves as a preventive measure against chronic diseases.
Theme 2: Cognitive Functioning
Physical activity is not just about physical health; it also plays a crucial role in cognitive development. The conference highlighted that physical activity before, during, and after school can boost scholastic performance. Practitioners should consider integrating short, moderate-intensity physical activities into daily routines to enhance brain function and cognition. Encouraging mastery of fundamental movement skills can further bolster cognitive and academic performance.
Theme 3: Engagement, Motivation, and Psychological Well-being
Engagement in physical activities can significantly enhance psychological well-being and social outcomes. Creating an autonomy-supportive and socially supportive environment can foster self-determined motivation among children. Practitioners should focus on building such environments to promote intrinsic motivation and participation. Additionally, training teachers and coaches to create positive motivational settings can lead to better psychological outcomes for children.
Theme 4: Social Inclusion and Implementation Strategies
Social inclusion is another critical area where physical activity can make a difference. The conference emphasized the importance of providing culturally and contextually relevant physical activity opportunities. Practitioners should aim to create inclusive environments that account for diverse backgrounds and characteristics, ensuring equitable access to physical activities. Implementing whole-school approaches and developing physical activity-conducive environments, like bike lanes and playgrounds, can significantly enhance participation and inclusion.
Conclusion
The Copenhagen Consensus Conference 2016 provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted benefits of physical activity in child development. By implementing these evidence-based strategies, practitioners can significantly improve outcomes for children in various domains. For those interested in delving deeper into the research, the original paper offers extensive insights and can be accessed here: The Copenhagen Consensus Conference 2016: children, youth, and physical activity in schools and during leisure time.
