Research undertakenby the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education in Novi Sad surveyed 1,869 parents of children aged 4 to 11 from towns in Vojvodina about the physical activity of preschool and younger school-aged children. The study results show the following:
- Parents have a highly positive attitude towards their children’s physical activity and are very engaged in involving children in sports and recreational clubs.
- There are some differences in parental involvement between boys and girls, favoring boys.
- Positive attitudes of parents towards their own physical activity do not match their current level of physical activity.
Children and Nature
The research states that almost 75% of parents reported enjoying physical activity and sports. However, only 28% are moderately physically active 4 to 7 days a week, compared to minimum health recommendations for adults: at least 30 minutes per day. Parents, as important role models for their children, can strongly encourage children by setting a personal example to adopt and establish adequate physical activity habits. This is especially important given that children’s physical activity levels significantly decline during primary school. Research conducted by scientists at the University of Bristol indicates that the time children aged six to eleven spend being physically active decreases by 17 minutes each year.
How Do Children Behave in Nature?
A child in nature explores their environment, enjoys the freedom of open spaces, manipulates their surroundings and imagines, feels good and happy, and strengthens relationships with adults free from the pressure and tasks of what the child must do and how to behave. Being physically active doesn’t only concern your child but also yourself. So, when you are outdoors with your children, take the opportunity to be physically active yourself, not just watch your children’s safety from a park bench. Go to the forest with your child, compete to see who performs exercises better, learn about new outdoor games with the children, or play the familiar ones. Forget the busy life and obligations and allow yourself to truly be a child.
We invite you to join us in opening the season of genuine outdoor time and caring for the health of ourselves and our children. Our kindergartens are going on a one-day trip to Bucin Salaš this week — where will you be going this week?