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Research
Parents on the Concept of Physical Literacy: What Do They Know, What Do They Do, and What Do They Want?Physical literacy development in early childhood, viewed by many as the foundation for lifelong physical activity engagement, is significantly influenced by parents. Our aim was to explore parents' understanding of physical literacy and gain insight into their perspectives on physical literacy promotion.
Research
Thriving families: The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multi-component physical literacy program for children with neurodevelopmental, emotional, or behavioural problemsChildren with neurodevelopmental, emotional, or behavioural challenges participate in lower levels of physical activity (PA) and subsequently have poorer physical and mental health outcomes. We sought to determine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multi-component physical literacy program for children with neurodevelopmental, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
News & Events
New national trial leverages childcare to boost physical activity in young Aussie kidsMore than 80,000 Australian children are expected to benefit as 700 childcare centres across the country trial a new program aimed at boosting declining physical activity levels.
Research
Eating and exercise experiences of Australian trans and gender diverse folks: lived experience and stakeholder perspectivesTrans individuals face elevated health risks and socio-environmental challenges, influencing their engagement in health-protective behaviors (e.g. exercise and nutrition). Despite these challenges, there is a significant gap in understanding the specific eating and exercise experiences of Australian trans adults, including barriers to healthy behaviors and healthcare experiences. This study aims to address this gap by exploring these experiences, informing targeted interventions and healthcare practices to improve health outcomes.
Research
Barriers and enablers to promoting grandchildren’s physical activity and reducing screen time: a qualitative study with Australian grandparentsWith an increasing number of grandparents providing care to their grandchildren, calls have been made for these caregivers to be considered important stakeholders in encouraging children's engagement in health-promoting behaviors, such as physical activity.
Research
More People, More Active, More Often for Heart Health - Taking Action on Physical ActivityPhysical inactivity is a leading contributor to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Almost 500 million new cases of preventable noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) will occur globally between 2020 and 2030 due to physical inactivity, costing just over US$300 billion, or around US$ 27 billion annually (WHO 2022). Active adults can achieve a reduction of up to 35% in risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
News & Events
Australia Day Honours for researchers and esteemed ElderFour outstanding members of The Kids Research Institute Australia family – three researchers and an Aboriginal Elder co-researcher – have been named in the Australia Day Honours List for their outstanding service to research and the community.
News & Events
Pre-term kids get green light to exerciseParents of children born prematurely have expressed concerns about their child’s lung health when they exercise, with symptoms such as breathlessness.
Research
Investigating the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Facebook Delivered, Parent Mediated, Physical Activity Intervention for Children with Developmental Coordination DisorderChildren with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) experience difficulties performing fundamental movement skills, resulting in reduced physical activity (PA). Given low PA can impact mental and physical health, improving PA in DCD appears imperative. This study investigates the feasibility of a Facebook delivered, parent mediated, PA intervention for children with DCD.
Research
Impact of the Play Active policy intervention on early childhood educator's sedentary behaviour-related practices, psychosocial influences and meeting policy recommendationsHigh levels of sedentary behaviour are associated with poor child health outcomes such as obesity. Early childhood education and care (ECEC) services are a key intervention setting. Most ECEC policy-based interventions focus on children's nutrition and physical activity with few aimed at children's sedentary behaviour.