Nature-Based Early Childhood Education and Children's Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, Motor Competence, and Other Physical Health Outcomes: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review.
J Phys Act Health
; 19(6): 456-472, 2022 06 01.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-35537707
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The purpose was to synthesize evidence on the association between nature-based Early Childhood Education (ECE) and children's physical activity (PA) and motor competence (MC).METHODS:
A literature search of 9 databases was concluded in August 2020. Studies were eligible if (1) children were aged 2-7 years old and attending ECE, (2) ECE settings integrated nature, and (3) assessed physical outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened full-text articles and assessed study quality. Synthesis was conducted using effect direction (quantitative), thematic analysis (qualitative), and combined using a results-based convergent synthesis.RESULTS:
1370 full-text articles were screened and 39 (31 quantitative and 8 qualitative) studies were eligible; 20 quantitative studies assessed PA and 6 assessed MC. Findings indicated inconsistent associations between nature-based ECE and increased moderate to vigorous PA, and improved speed/agility and object control skills. There were positive associations between nature-based ECE and reduced sedentary time and improved balance. From the qualitative analysis, nature-based ECE affords higher intensity PA and risky play, which could improve some MC domains. The quality of 28/31 studies was weak.CONCLUSIONS:
More controlled experimental designs that describe the dose and quality of nature are needed to better inform the effectiveness of nature-based ECE on PA and MC.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Exercício Físico
/
Comportamento Sedentário
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2022
Tipo de documento:
Article