Feasibility and efficacy of a "move and learn" physical activity curriculum in preschool children.
BACKGROUND
This study evaluated the effect of a "move and learn" curriculum on physical activity (PA) in 3- to 5-year-olds attending a half-day preschool program.


METHODS
Classrooms were randomized to receive an 8-week move and learn program or complete their usual curriculum. In intervention classes, opportunities for PA were integrated into all aspects of the preschool curriculum, including math, science, language arts, and nutrition education. Changes in PA were measured objectively using accelerometry and direct observation.


RESULTS
At the completion of the 8-week intervention, children completing the move and learn curriculum exhibited significantly higher levels of classroom moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) than children completing their usual curriculum. Significant differences were also noted for classroom VPA over the final 2 weeks.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that integrating movement experiences into an existing early childhood curriculum is feasible and a potentially effective strategy for promoting PA in preschool children.
Trost
Stewart G
SG
Dept of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
Fees
Bronwyn
B
Dzewaltowski
David
D
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003479:Curriculum; D015444:Exercise; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D007615:Kansas; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000379:methods