Developing the intervention material to increase physical activity levels of European preschool children: the...

Area of Science:

• Child Health
• Public Health Interventions
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Early childhood is crucial for establishing lifelong healthy behaviors.
• Kindergartens are ideal settings for health promotion, reaching over 95% of European preschoolers.
• The ToyBox-intervention aimed to improve energy balance-related behaviors in young children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a kindergarten-based, family-involved intervention to enhance physical activity in preschoolers.
• To adapt intervention materials considering local and cultural differences across six European countries.
• To focus on the physical activity component within the broader ToyBox-intervention.

Main Methods:

• Intervention materials were developed using the intervention mapping protocol.
• Parental involvement included newsletters, tip cards, and posters.
• Teachers received a handbook, physical education sessions, and classroom activity suggestions to boost physical activity.

Main Results:

• The intervention targeted four key behaviors: healthy snacking, water consumption, physical activity, and sedentary behavior.
• Materials were distributed within a standard timeframe, with teachers receiving resources before the intervention began.
• Parents and caregivers received materials during the intervention as specific behaviors were introduced.

Conclusions:

• The ToyBox-intervention provides a framework for promoting healthy behaviors in preschool settings.
• The study highlights the importance of a multi-component approach involving children, parents, and educators.
• The intervention's focus on physical activity, supported by tailored materials, aimed to increase preschoolers' activity levels.