Promoting physical activity among children from poor families: four case studies in the Netherlands

Oral Presentation B8.2

Authors

  • Linda Ooms Mulier Institute
  • Vicky Dellas Mulier Institute
  • Kirsten Gutter Mulier Institute
  • Caroline van Lindert Mulier Institute

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.537

Keywords:

Children, Low-Income, Physical Activity, Intervention

Abstract

Background: Children from low-income families participate less often in physical activity than children from high-income families. In the Netherlands, cross-sectoral interventions were implemented to stimulate physical activity among children from poor families. Purpose: To get insight into the implementation and successfulness of these interventions with regard to increasing physical activity among the target group. Methods: Four interventions were studied during the two-year funded period. Group interviews were conducted one and two years after the start of the intervention with: 1) project coordinators and collaborating partners; 2) participating children; and 3) parents. The group interviews focused on implementation and reach of the intervention, involvement of parents, and factors influencing physical activity participation among the target group. Results: Interventions were often adapted to the local context. Furthermore, there was little collaboration with key figures in the neighborhood that were close to the target group. The target group was predominantly reached through providing physical activities at schools in low-income neighborhoods. Providing different physical activities and personal guidance, stimulated children’s participation. However, a lack of follow-up activities and a lack of parent involvement, hindered structural physical activity participation. Conclusions: The target group can be reached with physical activity interventions. To enhance intervention effectiveness, it is important to involve parents and to ensure suited follow-up activities are available. Also, collaborations with key figures in the neighborhood could help in attracting more participants. Finally, adaptations in interventions should be thoroughly monitored. Funding: This study was funded by ZonMw, The Netherlands.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Ooms, L., Dellas, V., Gutter, K., & van Lindert, C. (2021). Promoting physical activity among children from poor families: four case studies in the Netherlands: Oral Presentation B8.2. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.537

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