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Comparing activity patterns, biological, and family factors in children with and without developmental coordination

Monique Natalie Beutum1, Reinie Cordier, Anita Bundy

  • 1University of Sydney, Faculty of Health Sciences, Sydney, Australia.

Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics
|December 13, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) engage in less moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), impacting their health. Interventions should consider strength, activity types, and family factors to boost MVPA and well-being.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Exercise Science
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Motor proficiency is linked to physical activity levels in children.
  • Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) may face higher risks of inactivity and associated health issues like cardiovascular disease.
  • Understanding physical activity patterns in DCD is crucial for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare physical activity patterns, body composition, strength, and cardiovascular fitness in children with and without DCD.
  • To identify factors influencing moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in children with DCD.
  • To inform strategies for promoting health benefits of MVPA in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative study involving 18 children aged 7-11 years, with and without DCD (n=9 per group).
  • Assessment of motor coordination, physical activity levels (MVPA), strength, cardiovascular fitness, body mass index (BMI), and relevant family factors.
  • Statistical analysis to compare groups and identify correlations between MVPA and other measured variables.

Main Results:

  • Children with DCD exhibited significantly lower MVPA levels compared to their peers without DCD.
  • Children with DCD presented with higher BMIs and reduced strength and cardiovascular fitness.
  • Strength, types of activities engaged in, and family factors were significantly correlated with MVPA in children with DCD.

Conclusions:

  • Children with DCD are at a disadvantage regarding MVPA, potentially increasing their risk for chronic health conditions.
  • Interventions aimed at increasing MVPA in children with DCD should incorporate strategies focusing on improving strength and diversifying activity types.
  • Family involvement, including parental perception of motor abilities and parental participation in activities, plays a significant role in promoting MVPA for children with DCD.

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