ISHN Commentary: The Value and Limits of School-based and School-Linked Physical Activity
Started: 14/11/2011 Completed:
This series of commentaries is being collated from the ISHN/Partners shared School Health Blog and other sources by the International School Health Network and its partners in knowledge exchange and development. These commentaries offer a listing of previously published items with key points noted at the top of the list. Comments on the individual items as well as the overall commentary are welcome. Readers may also be interested in our other ISHN/Partner Commentaries on different topics.
Key Points to Consider:
Background
Started: 14/11/2011 Completed:
This series of commentaries is being collated from the ISHN/Partners shared School Health Blog and other sources by the International School Health Network and its partners in knowledge exchange and development. These commentaries offer a listing of previously published items with key points noted at the top of the list. Comments on the individual items as well as the overall commentary are welcome. Readers may also be interested in our other ISHN/Partner Commentaries on different topics.
Key Points to Consider:
Background
- Comprehensive multi-level,multi-system approaches, coordinated agency-school board programs and whole school strategies for promoting physical activity through multiple, school-based and school-linked interventions have been well-described in a variety of ways in research and in practice. The ISHN/Partner International Discussion Group on Physical Activity has identified the many topics related to these multi-compoent strategies.
- There is a strong consensus that physical activity has a variety of benefits for children and youth. However, recent research and several systematic reviews are now suggesting that reduction/prevention of obesity or overweight is not among those benefits
- There are a number of studies showing that it is possible to increase the amount of time spent by young people in moderate or vigorous physical activity during the school day. The interventions studies include active and safe routes to school, increased or more active recess time, reverse lunch periods, increased curriculum tine for physical education, increased actual activity for students during PE classes and others.
- Many studies indicate that walking or biking to school is the most efficient way to increase children's physical activity. However, a minority of students do so, due to complex structural factors such as parental concerns for safety, parents busy lifestyles and more.
- Several studies indicate that while the rate of increase of childhood obesity has slowed in some countries, the impact of introducing comprehensive physical activity programs in many jurisdictions is limited or negligible. Some studies are suggesting more of a focus on diet and mental health. Others are focused on sedentary behaviours. However, some studies suggest that physical activity, eating habits and sedentary behaviours are independent variables where, for example, a child may be active but still eat an unhealthy diet.
Moderate, Vigorous Activity Can Be Increased in PE Classes 7/5/2015
A 2013 systematic review cited by the US-based Community Guide to Preventive Services as the basis for its recommendation that school-based physical education classes are effective in increasing student physical activity during the school day found that "Physical education (PE) that allows students to engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) can play an important role in health promotion. Unfortunately, MVPA levels in PE lessons are often very low. In this review, we aimed to determine the effectiveness of interventions designed to increase the proportion of PE lesson time that students spend in MVPA...From an initial pool of 12,124 non-duplicate records, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. Students in intervention conditions spent 24% more lesson time in MVPA compared with students in usual practice conditions (standardized mean difference=0.62)....Given the small number of studies, moderate-to-high risk of bias, and the heterogeneity of results, caution is warranted regarding the strength of available evidence. However, this review indicates that interventions can increase the proportion of time students spend in MVPA during PE lessons." Read more>> 0 Comments
A 2013 systematic review cited by the US-based Community Guide to Preventive Services as the basis for its recommendation that school-based physical education classes are effective in increasing student physical activity during the school day found that "Physical education (PE) that allows students to engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) can play an important role in health promotion. Unfortunately, MVPA levels in PE lessons are often very low. In this review, we aimed to determine the effectiveness of interventions designed to increase the proportion of PE lesson time that students spend in MVPA...From an initial pool of 12,124 non-duplicate records, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. Students in intervention conditions spent 24% more lesson time in MVPA compared with students in usual practice conditions (standardized mean difference=0.62)....Given the small number of studies, moderate-to-high risk of bias, and the heterogeneity of results, caution is warranted regarding the strength of available evidence. However, this review indicates that interventions can increase the proportion of time students spend in MVPA during PE lessons." Read more>> 0 Comments
Implementation, Impact of Daily Physical Activity Policies in Canada 27/4/2015
A multiple case history and systematic review of adoption, diffusion, implementation and impact of provincial daily physical activity (DPA) policies in Canadian schools was reported in the April 2015 Issue of BMC Public Health. "The purpose of this study was to understand the processes underlying adoption and diffusion of Canadian DPA policies, and to review evidence regarding their implementation and impact. Publicly available documents posted on the internet were reviewed to characterize adopter innovativeness, describe the content of their DPA policies, and explore the context surrounding policy adoption. Diffusion of Innovations theory provided a conceptual framework for the analyses. A systematic literature search identified studies that had investigated adoption, diffusion, implementation or impact of Canadian DPA policies. Results Five of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories (38.5%) have DPA policies. Although the underlying objectives of the policies are similar, there are clear differences among them and in their various policy trajectories. Adoption and diffusion of DPA policies were structured by the characteristics and capacities of adopters, the nature of their policies, and contextual factors. Limited data suggests implementation of DPA policies was moderate but inconsistent and that Canadian DPA policies have had little to no impact on school-aged children’s PA levels or BMI." Read more>> 0 Comments
A multiple case history and systematic review of adoption, diffusion, implementation and impact of provincial daily physical activity (DPA) policies in Canadian schools was reported in the April 2015 Issue of BMC Public Health. "The purpose of this study was to understand the processes underlying adoption and diffusion of Canadian DPA policies, and to review evidence regarding their implementation and impact. Publicly available documents posted on the internet were reviewed to characterize adopter innovativeness, describe the content of their DPA policies, and explore the context surrounding policy adoption. Diffusion of Innovations theory provided a conceptual framework for the analyses. A systematic literature search identified studies that had investigated adoption, diffusion, implementation or impact of Canadian DPA policies. Results Five of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories (38.5%) have DPA policies. Although the underlying objectives of the policies are similar, there are clear differences among them and in their various policy trajectories. Adoption and diffusion of DPA policies were structured by the characteristics and capacities of adopters, the nature of their policies, and contextual factors. Limited data suggests implementation of DPA policies was moderate but inconsistent and that Canadian DPA policies have had little to no impact on school-aged children’s PA levels or BMI." Read more>> 0 Comments
School variables may have little impact on physical activity (Germany) 27/4/2015
A multi-level analysis Individual and school level correlates of moderate to vigorous physical activity among school-children in Germany was reported in the in April 2015 Issue of BMC Public Health. "We used data from the 2009/10 German Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study (HBSC)-sample (n=5,005 students aged 11–15 years) including self-reported moderate to vigorous intensity PA as well as a variety of biological, demographic and behavioral correlates and matched them with school-level data from the national school principals’ HBSC questionnaire. We analyzed the associations of individual- and school-level correlates with MVPA by gender-specific multi-level regression. Results Only a small share of the overall variation in student’s PA was attributable to the school-level. Consequently, the associations of individual-level correlates with PA were stronger than those of the school-level. Our analysis revealed significant associations of individual-level (i.e. age, consumption of soft drinks, overweight) as well as school-level correlates (i.e. the availability of a football ground and a swimming pool) with MVPA. We also observed some gender-specific findings especially for the school level correlates. Cross-level interactions between individual- and school-level were not apparent." Read more>> 0 Comments
A multi-level analysis Individual and school level correlates of moderate to vigorous physical activity among school-children in Germany was reported in the in April 2015 Issue of BMC Public Health. "We used data from the 2009/10 German Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study (HBSC)-sample (n=5,005 students aged 11–15 years) including self-reported moderate to vigorous intensity PA as well as a variety of biological, demographic and behavioral correlates and matched them with school-level data from the national school principals’ HBSC questionnaire. We analyzed the associations of individual- and school-level correlates with MVPA by gender-specific multi-level regression. Results Only a small share of the overall variation in student’s PA was attributable to the school-level. Consequently, the associations of individual-level correlates with PA were stronger than those of the school-level. Our analysis revealed significant associations of individual-level (i.e. age, consumption of soft drinks, overweight) as well as school-level correlates (i.e. the availability of a football ground and a swimming pool) with MVPA. We also observed some gender-specific findings especially for the school level correlates. Cross-level interactions between individual- and school-level were not apparent." Read more>> 0 Comments
Adoption of Obesity Prevention Policies in Australian Primary Schools 27/4/2015
An article in Issue #2, 2015 of Health Education Research reports on a cohort study of the adoption of obesity prevention policies and practices by Australian primary schools: 2006 to 2013. The authors reports that "The prevalence of all four of the healthy eating practices and one physical activity practice significantly increased, while the prevalence of one physical activity practice significantly decreased. The adoption of practices did not differ by school characteristics. Government investment can equitably enhance school adoption of some obesity prevention policies and practices on a jurisdiction-wide basis. Additional and/or different implementation strategies may be required to facilitate greater adoption of physical activity practices. Ongoing monitoring of school adoption of school policies and practices is needed." A slide presentation of tghe results is available here. Read more from the abstract of the article here.
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An article in Issue #2, 2015 of Health Education Research reports on a cohort study of the adoption of obesity prevention policies and practices by Australian primary schools: 2006 to 2013. The authors reports that "The prevalence of all four of the healthy eating practices and one physical activity practice significantly increased, while the prevalence of one physical activity practice significantly decreased. The adoption of practices did not differ by school characteristics. Government investment can equitably enhance school adoption of some obesity prevention policies and practices on a jurisdiction-wide basis. Additional and/or different implementation strategies may be required to facilitate greater adoption of physical activity practices. Ongoing monitoring of school adoption of school policies and practices is needed." A slide presentation of tghe results is available here. Read more from the abstract of the article here.
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No Change in Overweight in High Income Countries; Small Gain in Physical Activity and Fruits/Vegetables 23/4/2015
Readers of this blog will know that ISHN has been tracking the changes in overweight/obesity among children and youth to determine if we are making any progress in preventing or reducing childhood obesity. Three articles in Supplementary Issue #2, 2015 of The European Journal of Public Health add to the ongoing observation that little progress is being made. These articles are based on trends analysis of the HBSC data in Western Europe and North America over the past decade. The article on obesity/overweight reported " Overweight prevalence increased among boys in 13 countries and among girls in 12 countries; in 10 countries, predominantly in Eastern Europe, an increase was observed for both boys and girls. Stabilization in overweight rates was noted in the remaining countries; none of the countries exhibited a decrease over the 8-year period examined. In the majority of countries (20/25) there were no age differences in trends in overweight prevalence." The second reported that "Multilevel logistic regression analyses showed an increase in daily fruit and vegetable consumption between 2002 and 2010 in the majority of countries for both genders and all three age groups" The third reported that "There was a slight overall increase in the number of youth reaching at least one hour of physical activity per day between 2002 and 2010 (17.0% and 18.6%, respectively). MVPA increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) among boys in 16 countries. Conversely, nine countries showed a significant decrease." In our view, these results, despite considerable investments in physical activity programs and changes to school food policies, suggest that we need to reconsider our fundamental approach to address other factors such as structural/life-work circumstances, marketing of unhealthy foods and mental health considerations. Read more>> 0 Comments
Readers of this blog will know that ISHN has been tracking the changes in overweight/obesity among children and youth to determine if we are making any progress in preventing or reducing childhood obesity. Three articles in Supplementary Issue #2, 2015 of The European Journal of Public Health add to the ongoing observation that little progress is being made. These articles are based on trends analysis of the HBSC data in Western Europe and North America over the past decade. The article on obesity/overweight reported " Overweight prevalence increased among boys in 13 countries and among girls in 12 countries; in 10 countries, predominantly in Eastern Europe, an increase was observed for both boys and girls. Stabilization in overweight rates was noted in the remaining countries; none of the countries exhibited a decrease over the 8-year period examined. In the majority of countries (20/25) there were no age differences in trends in overweight prevalence." The second reported that "Multilevel logistic regression analyses showed an increase in daily fruit and vegetable consumption between 2002 and 2010 in the majority of countries for both genders and all three age groups" The third reported that "There was a slight overall increase in the number of youth reaching at least one hour of physical activity per day between 2002 and 2010 (17.0% and 18.6%, respectively). MVPA increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) among boys in 16 countries. Conversely, nine countries showed a significant decrease." In our view, these results, despite considerable investments in physical activity programs and changes to school food policies, suggest that we need to reconsider our fundamental approach to address other factors such as structural/life-work circumstances, marketing of unhealthy foods and mental health considerations. Read more>> 0 Comments
Questionable Progress in Reducing Childhood Obesity 31/3/2015
An article in the February 2015 Issue of the International Journal of Obesity questions recent reports and reviewws that claim progress is being made in reducing childhood obesity rates. The authors report that "before concluding that the obesity epidemic is not increasing anymore, the validity of the presented data should be discussed more thoroughly. We had a closer look into the literature presented in recent reviews to address the major potential biases and distortions, and to develop insights about how to interpret the presented suggestions for a potential break in the obesity epidemic. Decreasing participation rates, the use of reported rather than measured data and small sample sizes, or lack of representativeness, did not seem to explain presented breaks in the obesity epidemic. Further, available evidence does not suggest that stabilization of obesity rates is seen in higher socioeconomic groups only, or that urbanization could explain a potential break in the obesity epidemic. However, follow-ups of short duration may, in part, explain the apparent break or decrease in the obesity epidemic. On the other hand, a single focus on body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to25 or greater than or equal to30 kg m−2 is likely to mask a real increase in the obesity epidemic. And, in both children and adults, trends in waist circumferences were generally suggesting an increase, and were stronger than those reported for trends in BMI." Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the February 2015 Issue of the International Journal of Obesity questions recent reports and reviewws that claim progress is being made in reducing childhood obesity rates. The authors report that "before concluding that the obesity epidemic is not increasing anymore, the validity of the presented data should be discussed more thoroughly. We had a closer look into the literature presented in recent reviews to address the major potential biases and distortions, and to develop insights about how to interpret the presented suggestions for a potential break in the obesity epidemic. Decreasing participation rates, the use of reported rather than measured data and small sample sizes, or lack of representativeness, did not seem to explain presented breaks in the obesity epidemic. Further, available evidence does not suggest that stabilization of obesity rates is seen in higher socioeconomic groups only, or that urbanization could explain a potential break in the obesity epidemic. However, follow-ups of short duration may, in part, explain the apparent break or decrease in the obesity epidemic. On the other hand, a single focus on body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to25 or greater than or equal to30 kg m−2 is likely to mask a real increase in the obesity epidemic. And, in both children and adults, trends in waist circumferences were generally suggesting an increase, and were stronger than those reported for trends in BMI." Read more>> 0 Comments
Progress in US Childhood Obesity Limited to Early Years 30/3/2015
An article in the March 2015 issue of Pediatrics reports on progress being made in reducing childhood obesity in the US. The 2 national surveys that have provided the most valid and reliable data are the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PedNSS). The authors report that" Inspection of prevalence rates over time show that after a consistent increase which began after 1980, the prevalence of obesity in 2- to 5-year-old children began to plateau between 2003 and 2004 (Fig 1). Data between 2003–2004 and 2009–2010 showed no statistically significant change in childhood obesity rates, whereas a decrease of 3.7% occurred between 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 in 2- to 5-year old children. No significant changes were observed in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in other age groups. " These results are similar to an extensive analysis that ISHN did on Canadian efforts over the past two decades to reduce obesity levels among school-age children. The results in both countries suggest that a re-consideration of the current focus on calories and physical activity as primary intervention is warranted. Read More>> 0 Comments
An article in the March 2015 issue of Pediatrics reports on progress being made in reducing childhood obesity in the US. The 2 national surveys that have provided the most valid and reliable data are the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PedNSS). The authors report that" Inspection of prevalence rates over time show that after a consistent increase which began after 1980, the prevalence of obesity in 2- to 5-year-old children began to plateau between 2003 and 2004 (Fig 1). Data between 2003–2004 and 2009–2010 showed no statistically significant change in childhood obesity rates, whereas a decrease of 3.7% occurred between 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 in 2- to 5-year old children. No significant changes were observed in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in other age groups. " These results are similar to an extensive analysis that ISHN did on Canadian efforts over the past two decades to reduce obesity levels among school-age children. The results in both countries suggest that a re-consideration of the current focus on calories and physical activity as primary intervention is warranted. Read More>> 0 Comments
Sports, Drugs and Adolescents: Contact vs Non-Contact Activities 30/1/2015
An article in the January 2015 issue of Substance Use, Misuse examines the correlation between study sport involvement and the use of drugs and alcohol. The authors report "The empirical research examining the impact of sports participation on alcohol and other drug use has produced mixed results. Part of this problem may be the result of how different types of sports participation create different experiences that shape certain types of behaviors that either facilitate or deter substance use. Objectives. We examined the association between different types of competitive sports participation and substance use among a nationally representative sample of adolescents. Methods: Two recent cross-sections from the Monitoring the Future were merged to capture a large subsection of adolescents who participate in either high-contact sports (football, wrestling, hockey, and lacrosse), semicontact sports (baseball, basketball, field hockey, and soccer), and noncontact sports (cross-country, gymnastics, swimming, tennis, track, and volleyball). Results: Multivariate analyses revealed that adolescents who participated in high-contact sports had higher odds of using substances during the past 30 days and initiating substance use at early ages. Further, adolescents who participated in noncontact sports had lower odds to indicate smoking cigarettes and marijuana during the past 30 days. Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the January 2015 issue of Substance Use, Misuse examines the correlation between study sport involvement and the use of drugs and alcohol. The authors report "The empirical research examining the impact of sports participation on alcohol and other drug use has produced mixed results. Part of this problem may be the result of how different types of sports participation create different experiences that shape certain types of behaviors that either facilitate or deter substance use. Objectives. We examined the association between different types of competitive sports participation and substance use among a nationally representative sample of adolescents. Methods: Two recent cross-sections from the Monitoring the Future were merged to capture a large subsection of adolescents who participate in either high-contact sports (football, wrestling, hockey, and lacrosse), semicontact sports (baseball, basketball, field hockey, and soccer), and noncontact sports (cross-country, gymnastics, swimming, tennis, track, and volleyball). Results: Multivariate analyses revealed that adolescents who participated in high-contact sports had higher odds of using substances during the past 30 days and initiating substance use at early ages. Further, adolescents who participated in noncontact sports had lower odds to indicate smoking cigarettes and marijuana during the past 30 days. Read more>> 0 Comments
Physical Education Hall of Shame: Inappropriate Teaching Practices, Games & Drills 15/1/2015
An article in Issue #1, 2015 of Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance has brought our attention of the PE Hall of Shame, a humorous yet effective way to discourage activities that actually reduce the liklihood that students will forma life-long attachment to physical activity and sports. The classic example, and the first "inductee" to this Hall of Shame in 1992 was the game of dodgeball, where the main objective is to attempt to inflict pain, harm, injury, and embarrassment on one’s opponents, and have a good laugh doing it.. "Seven new “inductees” are analyzed in this article: tug of war, capture the flag, climb the rope, all-star lines, athletes sit out on game days, shirts vs. skins, and attendance taken while students sit in squad lines. Read More>> 0 Comments
An article in Issue #1, 2015 of Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance has brought our attention of the PE Hall of Shame, a humorous yet effective way to discourage activities that actually reduce the liklihood that students will forma life-long attachment to physical activity and sports. The classic example, and the first "inductee" to this Hall of Shame in 1992 was the game of dodgeball, where the main objective is to attempt to inflict pain, harm, injury, and embarrassment on one’s opponents, and have a good laugh doing it.. "Seven new “inductees” are analyzed in this article: tug of war, capture the flag, climb the rope, all-star lines, athletes sit out on game days, shirts vs. skins, and attendance taken while students sit in squad lines. Read More>> 0 Comments
Perception & Reality of Crime Affects Teen Physical Activity Independently 10/9/2014
Using odds ratio calculations from data from the Canadian HBSC survey, a researcher shows (Vol 66, 2014, Preventive Medicine) that both the perception of safety in a neighbourhood, as well as the actual crime rate, will affect the levels of physical activity among adolescents. However, the article suggests that these are independent variables (with actual crime rates having more impact than perceived safety). Consequently, the author suggests that the reach of PA programs can be improved if we address the perceptions of safety alone. "After controlling for crime and relevant confounders, the relative odds of being physically active outside of school was 0.52 (95% CI: 0.44–0.62) in youth whose perceptions of neighborhood safety were in the lowest quintile. After controlling for perceptions of safety and relevant confounders, the relative odds of being physically active outside of school was 0.75 (0.60–0.95) in youth from neighborhoods with crimes against persons scores in the highest quintile. Within this large sample of 11–15 year olds, perceptions and objective measures of neighborhood safety and crime were independently associated with physical activity in free-time outside of school. Read more>> 0 Comments
Using odds ratio calculations from data from the Canadian HBSC survey, a researcher shows (Vol 66, 2014, Preventive Medicine) that both the perception of safety in a neighbourhood, as well as the actual crime rate, will affect the levels of physical activity among adolescents. However, the article suggests that these are independent variables (with actual crime rates having more impact than perceived safety). Consequently, the author suggests that the reach of PA programs can be improved if we address the perceptions of safety alone. "After controlling for crime and relevant confounders, the relative odds of being physically active outside of school was 0.52 (95% CI: 0.44–0.62) in youth whose perceptions of neighborhood safety were in the lowest quintile. After controlling for perceptions of safety and relevant confounders, the relative odds of being physically active outside of school was 0.75 (0.60–0.95) in youth from neighborhoods with crimes against persons scores in the highest quintile. Within this large sample of 11–15 year olds, perceptions and objective measures of neighborhood safety and crime were independently associated with physical activity in free-time outside of school. Read more>> 0 Comments
Mothers Working Affects their Children's Diet, Physical Activity 2/7/2014
A study reported in Volume 107, 2014 of Social Science & Medicine examined whether "Mothers' work hours are likely to affect their time allocation towards activities related to children's diet, activity and well-being. The researchers examined the suggestion that mothers who work more may be more reliant on processed foods, foods prepared away from home and school meal programs for their children's meals. A greater number of work hours may also lead to more unsupervised time for children that may, in turn, allow for an increase in unhealthy behaviors among their children such as snacking and sedentary activities such as TV watching. the study confirmed that hypothesis, even more so for higher income families. "Using data on a national cohort of children, we examine the relationship between mothers' average weekly work hours during their children's school years on children's dietary and activity behaviors, BMI and obesity in 5th and 8th grade. Our results are consistent with findings from the literature that maternal work hours are positively associated with children's BMI and obesity especially among children with higher socioeconomic status. Unlike previous papers, our detailed data on children's behaviors allow us to speak directly to affected behaviors that may contribute to the increased BMI. We show that children whose mothers work more consume more unhealthy foods (e.g. soda, fast food) and less healthy foods (e.g. fruits, vegetables, milk) and watch more television. Although they report being slightly more physically active, likely due to organized physical activities, the BMI and obesity results suggest that the deterioration in diet and increase in sedentary behaviors dominate." Read more>> 0 Comments
A study reported in Volume 107, 2014 of Social Science & Medicine examined whether "Mothers' work hours are likely to affect their time allocation towards activities related to children's diet, activity and well-being. The researchers examined the suggestion that mothers who work more may be more reliant on processed foods, foods prepared away from home and school meal programs for their children's meals. A greater number of work hours may also lead to more unsupervised time for children that may, in turn, allow for an increase in unhealthy behaviors among their children such as snacking and sedentary activities such as TV watching. the study confirmed that hypothesis, even more so for higher income families. "Using data on a national cohort of children, we examine the relationship between mothers' average weekly work hours during their children's school years on children's dietary and activity behaviors, BMI and obesity in 5th and 8th grade. Our results are consistent with findings from the literature that maternal work hours are positively associated with children's BMI and obesity especially among children with higher socioeconomic status. Unlike previous papers, our detailed data on children's behaviors allow us to speak directly to affected behaviors that may contribute to the increased BMI. We show that children whose mothers work more consume more unhealthy foods (e.g. soda, fast food) and less healthy foods (e.g. fruits, vegetables, milk) and watch more television. Although they report being slightly more physically active, likely due to organized physical activities, the BMI and obesity results suggest that the deterioration in diet and increase in sedentary behaviors dominate." Read more>> 0 Comments
Parent Concerns about children walking, biking to school based on complicated lives 12/6/2014
The recent international conference on physical activity in Toronto in May 2014 had several national surveys reporting sub-standard levels of physical activity in children. Walking and biking to school is potentially the best way to increase school-related PA but studies also shpw that parents are reluctant to allow their children to walk/bike to school or to play outside after school in unsupervised activities. A blog post from an unlikely source (The Microsoft Mobility Lab) helps us to understand how underlying social factors are driving parent concerns and decisions. The Communications Director for the Microsoft Lab asks the question: " Are Fearful, Lurking Parents a Reason for Uninspired Transportation Choice? He quotes from a book on the social lives of networked teens and points out that this parental concern is larger than just the trip to school. Parents are also reluctant to allow their children to go online, ride public transit, or even have much unstructured free time. The article notes how little time is now available for young people to mix socially without monitoring from their parents. He concludes that " We have to remember that when you’re younger, you always want to be older. Kids see adults in places like bars, clubs, restaurants, and even public transit where they are not allowed. Somehow within that mix, we, as a society, have to do a better job of helping our children go through the coming-of-age process in ways that will create the local and global communities for them that we once had as kids ourselves." Read more>> 0 Comments
The recent international conference on physical activity in Toronto in May 2014 had several national surveys reporting sub-standard levels of physical activity in children. Walking and biking to school is potentially the best way to increase school-related PA but studies also shpw that parents are reluctant to allow their children to walk/bike to school or to play outside after school in unsupervised activities. A blog post from an unlikely source (The Microsoft Mobility Lab) helps us to understand how underlying social factors are driving parent concerns and decisions. The Communications Director for the Microsoft Lab asks the question: " Are Fearful, Lurking Parents a Reason for Uninspired Transportation Choice? He quotes from a book on the social lives of networked teens and points out that this parental concern is larger than just the trip to school. Parents are also reluctant to allow their children to go online, ride public transit, or even have much unstructured free time. The article notes how little time is now available for young people to mix socially without monitoring from their parents. He concludes that " We have to remember that when you’re younger, you always want to be older. Kids see adults in places like bars, clubs, restaurants, and even public transit where they are not allowed. Somehow within that mix, we, as a society, have to do a better job of helping our children go through the coming-of-age process in ways that will create the local and global communities for them that we once had as kids ourselves." Read more>> 0 Comments
British school program shows no effect on activity & eating: The push back continues 29/5/2014
As American legislators debate the watering down of their school food policy guidelines, an international report shows few, if any reductions in childhood obesity rates and as researchers report that physical activity levels have little effect on obesity and overweight, a study reported in the British Medical Journal in May 2014 might be considered as part of an overall push-back against the progress made in recent years. The British study reported "The Active for Life Year 5 (AFLY5) intervention took place at 60 primary schools in the south west of England and involved over 2,000 children aged 8-10 years over the study period. The trial was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme. The study was designed to overcome many of the limitations of previous trials in this area. For example, the study included a large number of children and used accelerometers to measure activity levels. The intervention consisted of teacher training, lesson plans and interactive homework activities, and written material for school newsletters and parents. Schools were randomly allocated to either the intervention or control arm (control schools received standard teaching). The researchers found no evidence that the intervention increased time spent in moderate or vigorous physical activity or reduced time spent in sedentary behaviour when both were assessed using accelerometers. There was also no effect on child reported fruit and vegetable consumption. Further analysis found, however, that the intervention was effective in reducing child reported time spent in front of a screen at weekends and self reported consumption of snacks and high energy drinks. Despite being one of the largest trials in this area to date, and taking account of limitations of previous trials, the authors conclude that the AFLY5 intervention "is not effective at increasing levels of physical activity, decreasing sedentary behaviour, and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption in primary school children." Read more>> 0 Comments
As American legislators debate the watering down of their school food policy guidelines, an international report shows few, if any reductions in childhood obesity rates and as researchers report that physical activity levels have little effect on obesity and overweight, a study reported in the British Medical Journal in May 2014 might be considered as part of an overall push-back against the progress made in recent years. The British study reported "The Active for Life Year 5 (AFLY5) intervention took place at 60 primary schools in the south west of England and involved over 2,000 children aged 8-10 years over the study period. The trial was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme. The study was designed to overcome many of the limitations of previous trials in this area. For example, the study included a large number of children and used accelerometers to measure activity levels. The intervention consisted of teacher training, lesson plans and interactive homework activities, and written material for school newsletters and parents. Schools were randomly allocated to either the intervention or control arm (control schools received standard teaching). The researchers found no evidence that the intervention increased time spent in moderate or vigorous physical activity or reduced time spent in sedentary behaviour when both were assessed using accelerometers. There was also no effect on child reported fruit and vegetable consumption. Further analysis found, however, that the intervention was effective in reducing child reported time spent in front of a screen at weekends and self reported consumption of snacks and high energy drinks. Despite being one of the largest trials in this area to date, and taking account of limitations of previous trials, the authors conclude that the AFLY5 intervention "is not effective at increasing levels of physical activity, decreasing sedentary behaviour, and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption in primary school children." Read more>> 0 Comments
Exercising Power over Parent Excuse Notes from PE Classes 11/3/2014
A controversial article published in Issue #1, 2014 of the European Physical Education Review suggests that students who have been excused from PE classes byb a note from their parents should still be required to change into their PE uniforms or clothes and attend the classes. The author suggests that "The notion of power as a theoretical construct emerged as a result of constant comparison between the testimonies of the parents, pupils, teachers and trainee teachers, highlighting the seemingly ‘agreed acceptance’ of excuse notes by those key stakeholders involved in pupil participation. It is perceived that the policy of excuse notes attributes power to parents and pupils to self-exempt from participating in PE". The author also notes that "Parents will provide an excuse note for their child if they do not believe PE holds much value. The condoning of pupil self-exemption by parents is influenced by their values towards PE, embedded by their own school experiences and dispositions." The controversy arises from this analysis of power that assumes that the school has the power and the right to over-ride parental wishes on participation in a certain type of education. Imagine the reaction if parents wishes about sex education or religious education were also discounted. Rather than imposing a form of mild coercion, it might be better if deeper analysis of the parent and child negative experiences in PE were addressed. Read more>> 0 Comments
A controversial article published in Issue #1, 2014 of the European Physical Education Review suggests that students who have been excused from PE classes byb a note from their parents should still be required to change into their PE uniforms or clothes and attend the classes. The author suggests that "The notion of power as a theoretical construct emerged as a result of constant comparison between the testimonies of the parents, pupils, teachers and trainee teachers, highlighting the seemingly ‘agreed acceptance’ of excuse notes by those key stakeholders involved in pupil participation. It is perceived that the policy of excuse notes attributes power to parents and pupils to self-exempt from participating in PE". The author also notes that "Parents will provide an excuse note for their child if they do not believe PE holds much value. The condoning of pupil self-exemption by parents is influenced by their values towards PE, embedded by their own school experiences and dispositions." The controversy arises from this analysis of power that assumes that the school has the power and the right to over-ride parental wishes on participation in a certain type of education. Imagine the reaction if parents wishes about sex education or religious education were also discounted. Rather than imposing a form of mild coercion, it might be better if deeper analysis of the parent and child negative experiences in PE were addressed. Read more>> 0 Comments
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Position on Childhood Obesity
An article in the February 2014 issue of Infant, Child, Adolescent Nutrition summarizes the recent position adopted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics on pediatric obesity. The authors recommended a multisystem approach to effectively address pediatric obesity. They identified the following 6 key recommendations: (1) Integrate education with supportive environmental change. (2) Include both nutrition education and physical education.(3) Build in parent engagement for younger children. (4) Promote community engagement in schools and child care. (5) Policies that limit food availability show promise. (6) Dose and continuity is important. Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the February 2014 issue of Infant, Child, Adolescent Nutrition summarizes the recent position adopted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics on pediatric obesity. The authors recommended a multisystem approach to effectively address pediatric obesity. They identified the following 6 key recommendations: (1) Integrate education with supportive environmental change. (2) Include both nutrition education and physical education.(3) Build in parent engagement for younger children. (4) Promote community engagement in schools and child care. (5) Policies that limit food availability show promise. (6) Dose and continuity is important. Read more>> 0 Comments
Teacher Quality in Physical Education: Part of a TQM Trend 25/2/2014
One of the trends we have noted in recent articles about physical activity & schools is a focus on improving quality through a number of incremental changes, much like a total quality approach. Several articles in Issue #1, 2014 of Research Quarterly for Exercise & Sport are part of this trend, as they discuss teacher effectiveness in physical education. The set of articles are published in response to previous articles in the December 2013 issue of the same journal. The first article examines how student behaviours and expectations affect teaching, noting that "The most vocal students in physical education classes appear to thrive in the current multiactivity, recreation-oriented sport culture that dominates many U.S. physical education programs. They expect lessons with minimal skill and tactical instruction and with maximum opportunities to play ball". The article concludes by contesting an earlier claim that the goals of PE are "muddled". The second article suggests that PE is changing dramatically from the previous three decades of curriculum control led by PE teachers and researchers to one led by education ministries and education faculties. The third article suggests that high quality, daily PE is threatened by current increased demands on schools to be accountable for student performance. The fourth article examines how PE teachers can be accountable for student outcomes as one measure that also includes class observation, student activity levels and student engagement. The final article examines constraints imposed on PE teachers such as administrator support, limited curriculum time, student ability levels and other factors. Read more>> 0 Comments
One of the trends we have noted in recent articles about physical activity & schools is a focus on improving quality through a number of incremental changes, much like a total quality approach. Several articles in Issue #1, 2014 of Research Quarterly for Exercise & Sport are part of this trend, as they discuss teacher effectiveness in physical education. The set of articles are published in response to previous articles in the December 2013 issue of the same journal. The first article examines how student behaviours and expectations affect teaching, noting that "The most vocal students in physical education classes appear to thrive in the current multiactivity, recreation-oriented sport culture that dominates many U.S. physical education programs. They expect lessons with minimal skill and tactical instruction and with maximum opportunities to play ball". The article concludes by contesting an earlier claim that the goals of PE are "muddled". The second article suggests that PE is changing dramatically from the previous three decades of curriculum control led by PE teachers and researchers to one led by education ministries and education faculties. The third article suggests that high quality, daily PE is threatened by current increased demands on schools to be accountable for student performance. The fourth article examines how PE teachers can be accountable for student outcomes as one measure that also includes class observation, student activity levels and student engagement. The final article examines constraints imposed on PE teachers such as administrator support, limited curriculum time, student ability levels and other factors. Read more>> 0 Comments
Diet, physical activity and sedentary behavior not linked strongly 22/2/2014
An article in the January 2014 issue of the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition & Physical Activity reviewed several reviews and studies to determine the clustering among diet, physical activity and sedentary behavior. The authors report that "Eighteen studies (62% of potential studies) were identified that met the inclusion criteria, of which eight examined the clustering of PA and sedentary behavior and eight examined diet, PA and sedentary behavior. Studies were mostly cross-sectional and conducted in older children and adolescents (≥9 years). Findings from the review suggest that obesogenic cluster patterns are complex with a mixed PA/sedentary behavior cluster observed most frequently, but healthy and unhealthy patterning of all three behaviors was also reported. Cluster membership was found to differ according to age, gender and socio-economic status (SES). The tendency for older children/adolescents, particularly females, to comprise clusters defined by low PA was the most robust finding. Findings to support an association between obesogenic cluster patterns and overweight and obesity were inconclusive, with longitudinal research in this area limited." Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the January 2014 issue of the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition & Physical Activity reviewed several reviews and studies to determine the clustering among diet, physical activity and sedentary behavior. The authors report that "Eighteen studies (62% of potential studies) were identified that met the inclusion criteria, of which eight examined the clustering of PA and sedentary behavior and eight examined diet, PA and sedentary behavior. Studies were mostly cross-sectional and conducted in older children and adolescents (≥9 years). Findings from the review suggest that obesogenic cluster patterns are complex with a mixed PA/sedentary behavior cluster observed most frequently, but healthy and unhealthy patterning of all three behaviors was also reported. Cluster membership was found to differ according to age, gender and socio-economic status (SES). The tendency for older children/adolescents, particularly females, to comprise clusters defined by low PA was the most robust finding. Findings to support an association between obesogenic cluster patterns and overweight and obesity were inconclusive, with longitudinal research in this area limited." Read more>> 0 Comments
Parent Perceptions of Neighbourhood Safety Linked to Child Obesity 13/1/2014
ISHN has been tracking articles on various school-based and school-linked interventions to increase physical activity among students. One of those articles has noted that walking/biking to school was likely the best and easiest way to increase activity but, often, a minority of parents allow their children to do so. An article in Issue #6, 2013 of the European Journal of Public Health confirms other studies that suggest that parental perceptions of neighbourhood safety will strongly influence that choice. The researchers report that "Significant associations were found between child obesity and the following residential environmental characteristics: the odds of children being obese were lower if their parents believed that it was safe (low/no crime rate) to walk/cycle at night (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.54–0.79) and during the day (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.55–0.86) and that it was easy and pleasant (pedestrian safety) to walk in their neighbourhoods (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.58–0.90) and when local sidewalks were well maintained and unobstructed (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.01–1.40). Conclusion: Parental perceptions of neighbourhood safety and the quality of local sidewalks are significantly associated with obesity values." Read more>> 0 Comments
ISHN has been tracking articles on various school-based and school-linked interventions to increase physical activity among students. One of those articles has noted that walking/biking to school was likely the best and easiest way to increase activity but, often, a minority of parents allow their children to do so. An article in Issue #6, 2013 of the European Journal of Public Health confirms other studies that suggest that parental perceptions of neighbourhood safety will strongly influence that choice. The researchers report that "Significant associations were found between child obesity and the following residential environmental characteristics: the odds of children being obese were lower if their parents believed that it was safe (low/no crime rate) to walk/cycle at night (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.54–0.79) and during the day (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.55–0.86) and that it was easy and pleasant (pedestrian safety) to walk in their neighbourhoods (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.58–0.90) and when local sidewalks were well maintained and unobstructed (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.01–1.40). Conclusion: Parental perceptions of neighbourhood safety and the quality of local sidewalks are significantly associated with obesity values." Read more>> 0 Comments
Sports Participation & Educational Achievement 26/12/2013
A systematic review reported in Issue #4, 2013 of Journal of Children's Services has found that participation in such sports programs is associated with higher educational achievement. The study used "a combination of manual and automated screening was used to select studies for inclusion in this review based on pre-specified criteria. Included studies had to use a “high”-quality experimental research design, focus on children and young people and have quantitative educational outcome measures. Results from the individual studies were transformed into a standardised effect size and meta-analysis was used to combine the results from individual studies where appropriate." The authors report that "Young people's participation in organised sports activities, when compared to non-participation, improves their numeracy skills. Young people's participation in organised sport linked with extra-curricular activities, when compared to non-participation, improves a range of learning outcomes for underachieving pupils. These findings are based on six “high”-quality studies conducted in the UK and North America." Read more>> 0 Comments
A systematic review reported in Issue #4, 2013 of Journal of Children's Services has found that participation in such sports programs is associated with higher educational achievement. The study used "a combination of manual and automated screening was used to select studies for inclusion in this review based on pre-specified criteria. Included studies had to use a “high”-quality experimental research design, focus on children and young people and have quantitative educational outcome measures. Results from the individual studies were transformed into a standardised effect size and meta-analysis was used to combine the results from individual studies where appropriate." The authors report that "Young people's participation in organised sports activities, when compared to non-participation, improves their numeracy skills. Young people's participation in organised sport linked with extra-curricular activities, when compared to non-participation, improves a range of learning outcomes for underachieving pupils. These findings are based on six “high”-quality studies conducted in the UK and North America." Read more>> 0 Comments
Overweight German Kindergarten Teachers 28/10/2013
An article in October, 2013 Issue of BMC Public Health describes the weight status of German kindergarten teachers and suggests that their health is at greater risk than that of the general population and that they may offer an unhealthy role model for their students. The researchers report that "Kindergarten teachers aged 18–62 years (n = 313) were invited to complete a self-reported questionnaire. Their obesity status, health risk behaviors (i.e., habitual physical activity, screen time activities, eating behavior patterns, smoking), and their general ability to identify overweight children and the associated health risks of overweight and obesity based on special age- and sex-specific silhouettes were analyzed. Data regarding kindergarten teachers’ weight status and smoking behavior were compared with nationally representative data from the 2009 Microcensus (n = 371310) using the Mann–Whitney U-test. The prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were 41.2% and 17.9%, respectively. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher in kindergarten teachers (p < 0.001) compared to national Microcensus data. Only 44.6% of teachers were able to identify overweight children correctly. The fact that being overweight is associated with physical and mental health risks was only reported by 40.1% and 21.2% of teachers, respectively. Older kindergarten teachers were more likely to misclassify the overweight silhouettes, while younger, normal-weight, and overweight kindergarten teachers were more likely to underestimate the associated health risks. Obese kindergarten teachers reported spending more time in front of computer and television screens than their normal-weight counterparts, especially on weekends. In addition, obese kindergarten teachers reported eating less often with their families and more frequently reported watching television during meals. Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in October, 2013 Issue of BMC Public Health describes the weight status of German kindergarten teachers and suggests that their health is at greater risk than that of the general population and that they may offer an unhealthy role model for their students. The researchers report that "Kindergarten teachers aged 18–62 years (n = 313) were invited to complete a self-reported questionnaire. Their obesity status, health risk behaviors (i.e., habitual physical activity, screen time activities, eating behavior patterns, smoking), and their general ability to identify overweight children and the associated health risks of overweight and obesity based on special age- and sex-specific silhouettes were analyzed. Data regarding kindergarten teachers’ weight status and smoking behavior were compared with nationally representative data from the 2009 Microcensus (n = 371310) using the Mann–Whitney U-test. The prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were 41.2% and 17.9%, respectively. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher in kindergarten teachers (p < 0.001) compared to national Microcensus data. Only 44.6% of teachers were able to identify overweight children correctly. The fact that being overweight is associated with physical and mental health risks was only reported by 40.1% and 21.2% of teachers, respectively. Older kindergarten teachers were more likely to misclassify the overweight silhouettes, while younger, normal-weight, and overweight kindergarten teachers were more likely to underestimate the associated health risks. Obese kindergarten teachers reported spending more time in front of computer and television screens than their normal-weight counterparts, especially on weekends. In addition, obese kindergarten teachers reported eating less often with their families and more frequently reported watching television during meals. Read more>> 0 Comments
Parents & Physical Activity, Nutrition & Media Use of their Children 25/9/2013
A supplementary issue of Childhood Obesity explores the influence that parents have on their children's physical activity, eating habits and use of media such as TV, games and other screen time. Several articles in the special issue explore different styles of parenting, role modeling and child-parent communications and other aspects. Parenting/family development models are applied to food, activity and screen use. Mini-research agendas are described. The editorial for the issue notes that measurement issues need considerable work in this area. The articles all appear to be excellent and interesting but sometimes i wonder if researchers on one health issue ever read the similar research that has already been done by people working on other health issues. Parenting and parental influences have already been well-described and discussed in respect to sexual health, substance abuse and problem behaviours as well as in regards to youth development and family systems in general. How much of tbhis is really new or noteworthy? Read more >> 0 Comments
A supplementary issue of Childhood Obesity explores the influence that parents have on their children's physical activity, eating habits and use of media such as TV, games and other screen time. Several articles in the special issue explore different styles of parenting, role modeling and child-parent communications and other aspects. Parenting/family development models are applied to food, activity and screen use. Mini-research agendas are described. The editorial for the issue notes that measurement issues need considerable work in this area. The articles all appear to be excellent and interesting but sometimes i wonder if researchers on one health issue ever read the similar research that has already been done by people working on other health issues. Parenting and parental influences have already been well-described and discussed in respect to sexual health, substance abuse and problem behaviours as well as in regards to youth development and family systems in general. How much of tbhis is really new or noteworthy? Read more >> 0 Comments
Segmenting Youth to Promote Physical Activity 24/9/2013
An article in the September 2013 issue of the Journal of Science & Medicine in Sport uses a segmentation strategy normally used for communications planning to segment youth by the nature of their leisure time activities. Data were from the National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey in Australia were analyzed and profiles/clusters of youth leisure time activities were constructed. The researchers found that "For boys (n = 930), the Social tasker cluster was characterised by social interaction and chores & work, the Techno-active cluster by team sport and TV and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Average daily pedometer steps, age and remoteness were significant cluster correlates. For the girls (n = 923), the Social screenie cluster was characterised by TV and social interaction, the Quiet actives cluster by quiet time and non-team sport and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Pedometer steps, age, parental income and education, parent–child age difference, “extra foods”, fat and fruit intakes were significant correlates. Distinct sex-specific time use clusters and profiles exist among Australian youth. These findings may assist the development of targeted time use interventions to improve health and well-being." Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the September 2013 issue of the Journal of Science & Medicine in Sport uses a segmentation strategy normally used for communications planning to segment youth by the nature of their leisure time activities. Data were from the National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey in Australia were analyzed and profiles/clusters of youth leisure time activities were constructed. The researchers found that "For boys (n = 930), the Social tasker cluster was characterised by social interaction and chores & work, the Techno-active cluster by team sport and TV and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Average daily pedometer steps, age and remoteness were significant cluster correlates. For the girls (n = 923), the Social screenie cluster was characterised by TV and social interaction, the Quiet actives cluster by quiet time and non-team sport and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Pedometer steps, age, parental income and education, parent–child age difference, “extra foods”, fat and fruit intakes were significant correlates. Distinct sex-specific time use clusters and profiles exist among Australian youth. These findings may assist the development of targeted time use interventions to improve health and well-being." Read more>> 0 Comments
Energy Balance Study to Reveal Substantive Findings 24/9/2013
An article in Issue 33, 2013 of the Research Quarterly on Exercise & Sport promises some significant findings of an in-depth study of energy balance (caloric intake). This paradigm has influenced much of the thinking about body weight in recent years. The study examined 430 healthy young adults and tracked their energy intake and expenditures. Not surprisingly for this age group of 21-35, most participants gained weight during the year of the study, ranging from 2 to 10 lbs for women and between -1 and 12 lbs for men. The authors conclude in the abstract that "Resting metabolic rates well below the standard estimate suggest that the evaluation of the components of total energy expenditure will be impactful for our understanding of the roles of energy intake and expenditure on changes in energy utilization and storage." Perhaps the full article will explain that statement but it would appear to say that as we age, our resting metabolic rate slows and this may actually be the cause of weight gain. Consequently, if we reach an upper limit of physical activity (caused by time available in lour schedule), it may be better to focus on dietary chnages rather than the activity side of the energy balance equation. Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in Issue 33, 2013 of the Research Quarterly on Exercise & Sport promises some significant findings of an in-depth study of energy balance (caloric intake). This paradigm has influenced much of the thinking about body weight in recent years. The study examined 430 healthy young adults and tracked their energy intake and expenditures. Not surprisingly for this age group of 21-35, most participants gained weight during the year of the study, ranging from 2 to 10 lbs for women and between -1 and 12 lbs for men. The authors conclude in the abstract that "Resting metabolic rates well below the standard estimate suggest that the evaluation of the components of total energy expenditure will be impactful for our understanding of the roles of energy intake and expenditure on changes in energy utilization and storage." Perhaps the full article will explain that statement but it would appear to say that as we age, our resting metabolic rate slows and this may actually be the cause of weight gain. Consequently, if we reach an upper limit of physical activity (caused by time available in lour schedule), it may be better to focus on dietary chnages rather than the activity side of the energy balance equation. Read more>> 0 Comments
Youth, Golf & Positive Development 19/9/2013
An article in Issue #2, 2013 of Qualitative research on Sport, Exercise & Health reports that the youth development program for young golfers, First Tee, appears to develop life skills and other positive aspects among youth. The article reports on the initial evaluation of the program that examined inter-personal and self-management skills. The authors state that "Findings provide initial data-based evidence that The First Tee is having a positive impact on promoting youth development in the golf context and in the transfer of life skills to other domains" Read More>> 0 Comments
An article in Issue #2, 2013 of Qualitative research on Sport, Exercise & Health reports that the youth development program for young golfers, First Tee, appears to develop life skills and other positive aspects among youth. The article reports on the initial evaluation of the program that examined inter-personal and self-management skills. The authors state that "Findings provide initial data-based evidence that The First Tee is having a positive impact on promoting youth development in the golf context and in the transfer of life skills to other domains" Read More>> 0 Comments
School Micro-Politics, the Staffroom & New Health/PE Teachers 23/7/2013
An article in Volume 30, 2013 of the Journal of Teaching & Teacher Education explores how the micro=politics of the school, particularly the staffroom, where teachers spend much of their non-teaching time, as a key factor in teacher development, particularly their professional identity. The article examines the effect of the staffroom on beginning health/PE teachers. The authors suggest that "Staffroom occupants shaped situations which beginning teachers encountered. Micropolitical practices reflected personal and professional interests and knowledge. The staffroom context had the capacity to [re]shape beginning teacher learning." Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in Volume 30, 2013 of the Journal of Teaching & Teacher Education explores how the micro=politics of the school, particularly the staffroom, where teachers spend much of their non-teaching time, as a key factor in teacher development, particularly their professional identity. The article examines the effect of the staffroom on beginning health/PE teachers. The authors suggest that "Staffroom occupants shaped situations which beginning teachers encountered. Micropolitical practices reflected personal and professional interests and knowledge. The staffroom context had the capacity to [re]shape beginning teacher learning." Read more>> 0 Comments
Captains Picking Teams in Sports: Poor Practice with A Lifetime Effect 12/4/2013
An article in the March 2013 issue of the Journal of Physical education, Recreation & Dance notes that negative early student experiences with PE and sports can last a lifetime and affect their levels of physical activity. The researchers report on "a survey that asked 293 students about recollections from their childhood or youth physical education and sport experiences revealed that participants who had been picked or chosen last for a team had a significant reduction in physical activity later in life. Long recognized as an "inappropriate" instructional practice by NASPE, "captains picking teams" still occurs in some physical education and sport settings." Read more>> 0 Comments
An article in the March 2013 issue of the Journal of Physical education, Recreation & Dance notes that negative early student experiences with PE and sports can last a lifetime and affect their levels of physical activity. The researchers report on "a survey that asked 293 students about recollections from their childhood or youth physical education and sport experiences revealed that participants who had been picked or chosen last for a team had a significant reduction in physical activity later in life. Long recognized as an "inappropriate" instructional practice by NASPE, "captains picking teams" still occurs in some physical education and sport settings." Read more>> 0 Comments
PE in Irish Schools 24/9/2012
All of the articles in Issue #3, 2012 of Irish Educational Studies address the theme of a special issue on physical education. The articles include a research review and two other articles on the role of the generalist primary school teacher and the teaching of PE as well as critical look at school self-evaluation as a means to review progress in whole school PA programs. Read More.. 0 Comments
All of the articles in Issue #3, 2012 of Irish Educational Studies address the theme of a special issue on physical education. The articles include a research review and two other articles on the role of the generalist primary school teacher and the teaching of PE as well as critical look at school self-evaluation as a means to review progress in whole school PA programs. Read More.. 0 Comments
Walking to School: 22.2 minutes of Increased Activity 23/9/2012
A study reported in the August 2012 Issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine noted that active school transportation accounted for almost one/third of the moderate physical activity of students in a school in Bristol England. The authors report that" Physical activity levels during journeys to and from school were highly similar, and contributed 22.2 minutes (33.7%) of total daily MVPA. In addition, MVPA on the journey did not differ between boys and girls, but because girls have lower levels of daily physical activity than boys, the journey contributed a greater proportion of their daily MVPA (35.6% vs 31.3%). Read more..
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A study reported in the August 2012 Issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine noted that active school transportation accounted for almost one/third of the moderate physical activity of students in a school in Bristol England. The authors report that" Physical activity levels during journeys to and from school were highly similar, and contributed 22.2 minutes (33.7%) of total daily MVPA. In addition, MVPA on the journey did not differ between boys and girls, but because girls have lower levels of daily physical activity than boys, the journey contributed a greater proportion of their daily MVPA (35.6% vs 31.3%). Read more..
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Active Elementary Classes Nets 7.1 More Minutes of Activity per Day 19/9/2012
A study of the effect of teacher training of regular elementary teachers is reported in the September 2012 of Preventing Chronic Disease. Three hours of training motivated the teachers to increase the average time spent in activity with students from 2.4 minutes to 9.5 minutes and is presented as one way of achieving the goal of having children be active at least 60 minutes per day. We have identified this article as one in a series that calculates the time gained for children in activity from such regular classes, PE classes, walking to school and after school activities. Read more 0 Comments
A study of the effect of teacher training of regular elementary teachers is reported in the September 2012 of Preventing Chronic Disease. Three hours of training motivated the teachers to increase the average time spent in activity with students from 2.4 minutes to 9.5 minutes and is presented as one way of achieving the goal of having children be active at least 60 minutes per day. We have identified this article as one in a series that calculates the time gained for children in activity from such regular classes, PE classes, walking to school and after school activities. Read more 0 Comments
Factors affecting implementation of whole school PA strategies 13/6/2012
An article in Issue #3, 2012 of Health Education Research examined which components of a whole school physical activity (PA) strategy were most likely to be implemented successfully. These components included sports after school and during lunch break, active schoolyards, active school commuting) and organizational principles (e.g. safe bike racks, pupil involvement). Key representatives of 111 elementary and 125 secondary schools filled out an online survey. Less than half of the elementary schools organized sports during lunch-break or after school. In secondary schools the least implemented strategies were the promotion of active school commuting and after-school sports. In general pupil, parental and community involvement scored low. Better knowledge of community schools and having attended in-service training were associated with higher implementation scores in elementary and secondary schools. Better implementation of the strategies was found in larger schools. Participation in activities from the School Sports Association and more perceived interest from parents and the school board were also associated with higher implementation scores. In conclusion, knowledge of community schools and in-service training next to sufficient human resources are potential key factors to promote PA. Read more. 0 Comments
An article in Issue #3, 2012 of Health Education Research examined which components of a whole school physical activity (PA) strategy were most likely to be implemented successfully. These components included sports after school and during lunch break, active schoolyards, active school commuting) and organizational principles (e.g. safe bike racks, pupil involvement). Key representatives of 111 elementary and 125 secondary schools filled out an online survey. Less than half of the elementary schools organized sports during lunch-break or after school. In secondary schools the least implemented strategies were the promotion of active school commuting and after-school sports. In general pupil, parental and community involvement scored low. Better knowledge of community schools and having attended in-service training were associated with higher implementation scores in elementary and secondary schools. Better implementation of the strategies was found in larger schools. Participation in activities from the School Sports Association and more perceived interest from parents and the school board were also associated with higher implementation scores. In conclusion, knowledge of community schools and in-service training next to sufficient human resources are potential key factors to promote PA. Read more. 0 Comments
Capacity Matters: Three Examples 23/5/2012
The ISHN information service provided to its members monitors over 200 journals, over 100 media outlets and over 100 social media accounts and posts the titles, with links, into the School Health Insider, a members only web site as well as selected Twitter accounts. In the first week of May, 2012, we identified three journal articles that provide examples of why system, organizational and professional capacity matter in implementing/operating and sustaining programs and approaches.
The ISHN information service provided to its members monitors over 200 journals, over 100 media outlets and over 100 social media accounts and posts the titles, with links, into the School Health Insider, a members only web site as well as selected Twitter accounts. In the first week of May, 2012, we identified three journal articles that provide examples of why system, organizational and professional capacity matter in implementing/operating and sustaining programs and approaches.
- State/Provincial Leadership Matters
- Three articles in the May, 2012 Issue of Journal of School Health report on the effect of state level leadership in regulating school food sales, in farm to school programs and in monitoring BMI. Not surprisingly, those states that had passed laws and shown active leadership had more school districts and schools implementing those poicies and programs.
- Assistance, Coordination, Training Matter
- Two articles in Issue #3, 2012 of Preventing Chronic Disease report on the Healthy Schools program, a support to the US federal law requiring funded schools to implement nutrition and activity programs. The article on the role of the Technical Assistance component of the HSP shows that training, assistance and coordination matter in the implementation and operation of the program.
- Coordinators Matter
- An article in Issue #3, 2012 of the Health Education Journal describes the factors that facilitate and barriers towards the implementation of health education programmes in primary education schools of the prefecture of Achaia, Greece.Findings indicated that the most significant factor that facilitates the implementation of innovative health education programmes is ‘Knowledge and skills of the Health Education Officer and the teachers’. The Health Education Officer plays an important role in programme coordination by supporting, counselling, giving feedback and providing training/educational materials to teachers.0 Comments
Five Point Plan to Improve Physical Activity in Schools 14/11/2011
Increasing time for physical education and physical activity in school will not in itself guarantee a reversal in the current trend of declining physical activity and healthy weight. Changes in methodology and curriculum construction to cater to the physical activity needs and learning styles of all students, as well as teacher confidence in developing educationally appropriate curriculum across all years of schooling, are also required. That means programs must be future-focused to help children learn how to be responsive to changing and emerging recreation, sport, and activity possibilities, recognizing that the needs of individuals change as they journey through life. Read more... 0 Comments
Increasing time for physical education and physical activity in school will not in itself guarantee a reversal in the current trend of declining physical activity and healthy weight. Changes in methodology and curriculum construction to cater to the physical activity needs and learning styles of all students, as well as teacher confidence in developing educationally appropriate curriculum across all years of schooling, are also required. That means programs must be future-focused to help children learn how to be responsive to changing and emerging recreation, sport, and activity possibilities, recognizing that the needs of individuals change as they journey through life. Read more... 0 Comments
Physical Activity & Cognition 14/11/2011
While many schools are reducing physical activity because of time constraints created by the No Child Left Behind Act, a large group of studies has linked physical activity with cognition. The researchers have come at the topic from a wide range of disciplines. Some are cognitive scientists or exercise physiologists. Other advocates are educational psychologists, neurobiologists, or physical educators. The applied research, which compares academic achievement between schools where kids have physical activity and those where they don’t, also supports the hypothesis.You’ve heard that exercise reduces discipline issues. Yes, it does. Harvard Professor John Ratey shows how it does this in his 2009 book Spark. You know that recess and physical education can promote cooperation, attentional skills, and social play. Now let’s add the neuroscience perspective. It reveals information that other disciplines cannot. For example, we know that exercise is highly correlated with neurogenesis, or the production of new brain cells. We know exercise upregulates a critical compound called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. We also know that neurogenesis is correlated with improved learning and memory. In addition, neurogenesis appears to be inversely correlated with depression. Read More... 0 Comments
While many schools are reducing physical activity because of time constraints created by the No Child Left Behind Act, a large group of studies has linked physical activity with cognition. The researchers have come at the topic from a wide range of disciplines. Some are cognitive scientists or exercise physiologists. Other advocates are educational psychologists, neurobiologists, or physical educators. The applied research, which compares academic achievement between schools where kids have physical activity and those where they don’t, also supports the hypothesis.You’ve heard that exercise reduces discipline issues. Yes, it does. Harvard Professor John Ratey shows how it does this in his 2009 book Spark. You know that recess and physical education can promote cooperation, attentional skills, and social play. Now let’s add the neuroscience perspective. It reveals information that other disciplines cannot. For example, we know that exercise is highly correlated with neurogenesis, or the production of new brain cells. We know exercise upregulates a critical compound called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. We also know that neurogenesis is correlated with improved learning and memory. In addition, neurogenesis appears to be inversely correlated with depression. Read More... 0 Comments