Supporting Physical Activity in the Childcare Environment (SPACE): rationale and study protocol for a cluster...

Area of Science:

• Child Health
• Pediatric Exercise Science
• Early Childhood Education

Background:

• Young children exhibit low physical activity levels in childcare settings.
• Preschoolers are more active outdoors, particularly in the initial minutes of play.
• Previous interventions using staff training or play equipment successfully increased activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the protocol, methods, and evaluation of the Supporting Physical Activity in the Childcare Environment (SPACE) intervention.
• To provide a foundation for future research on enhancing physical activity in childcare.
• To address the need for improved physical activity in early childhood education.

Main Methods:

• A cluster randomized controlled trial involving 22 childcare centers.
• An 8-week intervention combining shorter, frequent outdoor play, portable equipment, and staff training.
• Physical activity measured by accelerometers at baseline, post-intervention, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

Main Results:

• The SPACE intervention is designed to increase physical activity in preschoolers.
• Secondary outcomes include evaluating effects on sedentary time, BMI, quality of life, and provider knowledge.
• The study employs rigorous methodology for reliable data collection.

Conclusions:

• The SPACE study seeks to elevate physical activity levels in childcare settings.
• Results may guide policymakers and childcare providers in modifying curricula and playtimes.
• This research contributes to understanding effective strategies for promoting childhood physical activity.