Enhancing Physical Activity in Early Care and Education Settings through PSE Michele Buran, MA CSU, Chico Center for Nutrition & Activity Promotion
What does Physical Activity look like in ECE settings? Structured PA (teacher-led) Unstructured PA (free play) Playing Outdoors Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) Teacher Encouragement Play Space Environments
Physical Activity Policy based on Best Practices
Physically Active Play Time We provide >120 min. of gross motor play time for full day sites and 60 minutes for half day sites to all children each day. We provide opportunities for outdoor play 2 or more times per day. We ensure that children are rarely seated for periods of more than 30 minutes without incorporated movement activities. We do not withhold active play time for children as a consequence for behavior. We rarely show television and videos and only use them as an educational tool.
Play Environments We provide fixed play equipment that is extensive and varied for all children. We provide portable play equipment that is diverse and available for children to use at the same time. We make outdoor portable play equipment freely available to all children all of the time. Outdoor play space includes an open, grassy area and a track/path for wheeled toys. Indoor space will include room for large gross motor movements, when weather does not permit outdoor play.
Supporting Physical Activity Our staff encourage children to be active and regularly join children in active play. We encourage parents to dress children appropriately for active play and sun protection We communicate positive messages to families about participating in PA and fundamental movement skills at home. We communicate positive messages to families about limiting screen time to < 2 hours per day. We provide visible support for PA in classrooms and common areas through use of posters, pictures, and displayed books.
Physical Activity Education We provide training opportunities for staff on physical activity (other than playground safety) 2X per year or more. We provide teacher-directed physical activity education for children through a standardized curriculum 2X per week or more. We offer physical activity education to parents 2X per year or more.
Systems Change Planning & scheduling time for structured and unstructured PA Adopting curriculum Training teachers Rotating PA equipment Limiting screen time PA messaging to parents
Environmental Change Create environments that encourage movement Both indoors and outdoors. – Open Space – Climbing equipment – Wheeled toys – Manipulatives – Playground stencils – Posters