Active Play for Lifelong Learning: Evaluation of a Co-Created Professional Development Program for Early Childhood Educators

Contrary to popular belief, children under five aren’t naturally active all day. In fact, most don’t get enough movement to support healthy development, and this matters, because over two-thirds of their waking hours are spent in childcare. Yet, many early childhood educators (Educators) receive little to no training in how to promote physical activity through active play.
This project, in partnership with Active for Life (AFL), a national organization funded by B2ten, evaluates the impact the pilot phased of a co-created professional development program designed to change that. Through surveys and interviews with Educators from six provinces, the project will uncover what helps active play thrive in busy, real-world childcare settings. The findings will help AFL refine and expand the program nationally.
By strengthening the capacity of Educators to integrate active play into daily routines and create a love of movement, this project supports the development of healthy physical activity habits in early childhood, habits that research shows are more likely to last into adulthood, ultimately potentially reducing chronic disease risk and contributing to a healthier population over time.

Faculty Supervisor:

Patricia Tucker

Student:

Partner:

B2ten

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: