Connecting children to recreational activities: results of a cluster randomized trial.
OBJECTIVE
Identify if outreach support increases school-aged children's participation in recreational activities.


METHODS
Cluster randomized trial.


METHODS
Sixteen schools in economically vulnerable neighborhoods were randomized to either an intervention or control group.


METHODS
Children in grades 3 to 5 and their families were invited to participate.


METHODS
Children in intervention schools were assigned a "connector" (outreach worker) to facilitate participation in recreation activities.


METHODS
The Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE) was the primary measure at baseline, middle, and end of 1 year. Demographics, body mass index, child physical and psychosocial health, coordination, and self-esteem were measured.


METHODS
A generalized linear model was used to test differences between intervention and control groups.


RESULTS
Three hundred and sixty children enrolled, and 306 (85%) completed the study. A greater proportion of children in the intervention group compared with the control group increased participation in physical activity (21% vs. 10%, p = .02). Children who increased their activity were more likely to have higher levels of contact with the connectors (31% vs. 8%, p = .001). Study limitations included (1) 29% of eligible families participated, (2) first use of the CAPE instrument as a longitudinal measure, and (3) connectors were not blinded to group assignment.


CONCLUSIONS
Children living in vulnerable neighborhoods benefit from outreach workers to connect them with physical activity programs.
McNeil
Deborah A
DA
Decision Support Research Team, Calgary Health Region, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. debbie.mcneil@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Wilson
Brenda N
BN
Siever
Jodi E
JE
Ronca
Margie
M
Mah
Jean K
JK
D015992:Body Mass Index; D002648:Child; D003710:Demography; D004032:Diet; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D011998:Recreation / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept