Study protocol: effects of school gardens on children's physical activity

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Environmental Health
• Educational Interventions

Background:

• Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern requiring effective interventions.
• School gardens offer a promising avenue to promote healthy habits, including physical activity and reduced sedentary time, in children.
• Limited research currently exists on the specific impact of school gardens on children's physical activity levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the effect of school gardens on children's overall physical activity and sedentary behavior.
• To assess the impact of school gardens on physical activity during the school day.
• To compare physical activity levels and postures during indoor classroom versus outdoor garden-based lessons.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving twelve New York State schools.
• Intervention group received a school garden, curriculum, and resources; control group received gardens later.
• Physical activity was measured using surveys, accelerometry, and direct observation (PARAGON) over 18 months.

Main Results:

• The study is designed to yield insights into the effectiveness of school gardens.
• Data collection includes physical activity "usually" and "yesterday" via surveys.
• At-school physical activity is objectively measured using accelerometry.

Conclusions:

• Results will inform the potential of school gardens to increase physical activity in children.
• Findings will highlight the role of school gardens in decreasing sedentary behaviors among youth.
• This research contributes to understanding innovative strategies for childhood obesity prevention.