Activity and health prevention in preschools - contents of an activity-based intervention programme (PAKT - Prevention through Activity in Kindergarten Trial)

Abstract

Aim: To establish an effective and feasible physical activity intervention programme for preschools. Methods: A multicomponent physical activity intervention programme with three components was developed for the preschool setting based on the psychomotor concept: daily structured physical education lessons for the children provided by the kindergarten teachers, physical activity homework for the child and his/her family, and parental education. The kindergarten teachers were invited to two workshops providing information on the background of the intervention and practical training for planning and organising the activity lessons. Regular supervision at the kindergartens was implemented. Results: A manual describing the background and the content of the intervention as well as practical examples for physical education lessons was made available to kindergarten teachers. Furthermore, 183 illustrated cards with about 400 exercises and games were generated to plan the physical education lessons. In addition to describing the exercise tasks, their main focus, and possible modifications, the cards summarised the requirements with respect to space, equipment, and staff. This collection of exercises and games suits the needs of preschools of different sizes, and equipment and staff resources. The focus of the given exercises was on fun and cooperation of the participating children while improving coordination skills, perception, and muscle strength, power and endurance abilities. The cards were organised according to the main focus of the exercise. Likewise, 52 homework cards were generated illustrating games and motor tasks for one participant, as well as for the whole family, and accounting for seasonal requirements. Finally, three seasonal homework cards with further activity games as well as educational material for the parents (focussing, e.g., on the importance of motor abilities and physical activity in preschool children, of healthy nutrition and reduction of media use in childhood) were provided. Conclusion: The programme will now be distributed to preschools in Germany and also—after translation and adjustment to the local requirements—established in Chile.