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Selected Works of Jennifer D. Irwin
Article
Preschoolers' Physical Activity Behaviours: Parents' Perspectives
Canadian Journal of Public Health
  • Jennifer D. Irwin, The University of Western Ontario
  • Meizi He, The University of Western Ontario - Brescia University College
  • L. Michelle Sangster Bouck, Middlesex-London Health Unit, London, ON
  • Patricia Tucker, The University of Western Ontario
  • Graham L. Pollett, Middlesex-London Health Unit, London, ON
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Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2005
Disciplines
Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To understand parents' perspectives of their preschoolers' physical activity behaviours.

METHODS: A maximum variation sample of 71 parents explored their preschoolers' physical activity behaviours through 10 semi-structured focus group discussions.

RESULTS: Parents perceived Canada's Physical Activity Guidelines for Children as inadequate; that their preschoolers get and need more than 30-90 minutes of activity daily; and that physical activity habits must be established during the preschool years. Nine barriers against and facilitators toward adequate physical activity were proposed: child's age, weather, daycare, siblings, finances, time, society and safety, parents' impact, and child's activity preferences.

DISCUSSION: The need for education and interventions that address current barriers are essential for establishing physical activity as a lifestyle behaviour during early childhood and, consequently, helping to prevent both childhood and adulthood obesity.

Citation Information
Jennifer D. Irwin, Meizi He, L. Michelle Sangster Bouck, Patricia Tucker, et al.. "Preschoolers' Physical Activity Behaviours: Parents' Perspectives" Canadian Journal of Public Health Vol. 96 Iss. 4 (2005) p. 299 - 303
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jenniferirwin/116/