A systematic review of interventions to promote physical activity in the preschool setting

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Behavioral Science
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Preschool physical activity is crucial for long-term health.
• Identifying effective school-based interventions is a public health priority.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review school-based interventions designed to enhance physical activity in preschool-aged children.
• To synthesize findings on intervention types and their effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across nine electronic databases.
• Search terms included "physical activity" combined with "environment," "children," or "interventions."
• Studies published between 2002 and 2014 were included.

Main Results:

• Fourteen relevant articles were identified and analyzed.
• Interventions encompassed environmental modifications, cognitive/behavioral strategies, or combined approaches.
• Effective strategies included playground modifications (e.g., equipment, markings) and goal-setting with reinforcement.

Conclusions:

• Environmental manipulations and behavioral strategies show promise for increasing preschool physical activity.
• Additional research is necessary to establish definitive, evidence-based interventions.
• Future studies should focus on optimizing intervention components for sustained physical activity promotion.