Improving children's physical activity in out-of-school hours care settings.
OBJECTIVE
Improving children's opportunities for and participation in physical activity at out-of-school hours (OOSH) care.


METHODS
A needs assessment, 12-month implementation and evaluation were conducted. Strategies included feedback and support to improve physical activity programs and policies; staff training; resource distribution; and grants to disadvantaged services. Strategies were developed in partnership with an advisory committee from the OOSH sector. Physical activity policies, the types of after-school activities offered and children's participation in these activities were evaluated before and after implementation.


RESULTS
Statistically significant improvements were seen in the proportion of moderate or vigorous activities programmed each week. Children's participation showed a significant shift from lower to higher-intensity activities. Improvements were also seen in the number of services with planned physical activity programs and physical activity policies.


CONCLUSIONS
The OOSH sector is an effective setting for promoting children's physical activity.
Sangster
Janice
J
Population Health, Health Development, Greater Southern Area Health Service, New South Wales. Sangster@gsahs.health.nsw.gov.au
Eccleston
Philippa
P
Porter
Stuart
S
D002648:Child; D002656:Child Day Care Centers; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019058:Community Networks; D015444:Exercise; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010806:Physical Education and Training