ORCID Profile
0000-0002-2702-7110
Current Organisation
Deakin University
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Human Movement and Sports Science not elsewhere classified | Human Movement and Sports Science | Epidemiology | Community Child Health | Public Health and Health Services
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Related Links
Publications
A Parent-Focused Intervention to Reduce Infant Obesity Risk Behaviors: A Randomized Trial
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 04-2013
Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of a parent-focused intervention on infants’ obesity-risk behaviors and BMI. This cluster randomized controlled trial recruited 542 parents and their infants (mean age 3.8 months at baseline) from 62 first-time parent groups. Parents were offered six 2-hour dietitian-delivered sessions over 15 months focusing on parental knowledge, skills, and social support around infant feeding, diet, physical activity, and television viewing. Control group parents received 6 newsletters on nonobesity-focused themes all parents received usual care from child health nurses. The primary outcomes of interest were child diet (3 × 24-hour diet recalls), child physical activity (accelerometry), and child TV viewing (parent report). Secondary outcomes included BMI z-scores (measured). Data were collected when children were 4, 9, and 20 months of age. Unadjusted analyses showed that, compared with controls, intervention group children consumed fewer grams of noncore drinks (mean difference = –4.45 95% confidence interval [CI]: –7.92 to –0.99 P = .01) and were less likely to consume any noncore drinks (odds ratio = 0.48 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.95 P = .034) midintervention (mean age 9 months). At intervention conclusion (mean age 19.8 months), intervention group children consumed fewer grams of sweet snacks (mean difference = –3.69 95% CI: –6.41 to –0.96 P = .008) and viewed fewer daily minutes of television (mean difference = –15.97: 95% CI: –25.97 to –5.96 P = .002). There was little statistical evidence of differences in fruit, vegetable, savory snack, or water consumption or in BMI z-scores or physical activity. This intervention resulted in reductions in sweet snack consumption and television viewing in 20-month-old children.
A thematic cluster analysis of parents’ online discussions about fussy eating (Preprint)
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 19-01-2021
Abstract: ood fussiness is common in toddlerhood. Fussiness is associated with nonresponsive parent feeding practices, such as persuasive and instrumental feeding. Such feeding practices may reinforce fussy eating behaviors and are associated with poorer dietary intake and suboptimal growth trajectories. Parent feeding practices are known to cluster however, no previous research has examined how feeding practices cluster in parents of fussy eaters. his study explored how feeding practices and factors known to influence these clustered among parents who perceived their toddler to be a fussy eater. ata were collected from parent discussions of fussy eating on an online parenting forum on the social media site, Reddit (80,366 posts). Latent Dirichlet Allocation was used to identify discussions of fussy eating. Relevant posts (1,542) made by users who identified as a parent of a fussy eater (n=630) underwent qualitative coding and thematic analysis. ive clusters of parents were identified, ranging in size from 53 to 189 users. These were primarily characterized by parents’ degree of concern and feeding practices: 1) High Concern, Nonresponsive 2) Concerned, Nonresponsive 3) Low Concern, Responsive 4) Low Concern, Mixed Strategies 5) Low Concern, Indulgent. Parents who used responsive practices tended to be less concerned for fussy eating, have greater trust in their child’s ability to self-regulate hunger, have longer-term feeding goals, and exhibit a greater ability for personal self-regulation. actors related to parent feeding practices may cluster among parents who perceive their toddler to be a fussy eater. Future research should examine these constructs to identify how they may relate to each other and to parents’ feeding practices in order to learn how they could be leveraged in parent feeding interventions.
Mediators of the Relationship Between Maternal Education and Children’s TV Viewing
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2007.02.039
Abstract: Maternal education is consistently found to be inversely related to children's television viewing and is associated with aspects of the family television environment. This study investigates whether family television environment mediates the relationship between maternal education and children's television viewing. Parents of 1484 children reported maternal education, time their child spends watching television, and 21 aspects of the family television environment (potential mediators) during 2002 and 2003. Separate regression analyses were conducted in 2006 for each potential mediator that met two initial conditions for mediation (associated with both maternal education and children's television viewing (p<0.10)), to assess whether inclusion reduced the association between maternal education and children's television viewing. Multivariable regression assessed the combined impact of all mediators. Twelve of 21 potential mediators met the initial conditions for mediation. Inclusion of each resulted in decreased beta values (3.2% to 15.2%) for the association between maternal education and television viewing. Number and placement of televisions in the home appeared to have the greatest mediating effect, followed by frequency of eating dinner in front of the television with the child and rules about television viewing during mealtimes. Together, the 12 mediators accounted for more than one-third of the association between maternal education and children's television viewing time. This study suggests the strong inverse relationship between maternal education and children's television viewing is partly mediated by aspects of the family television environment.
Interventions to reduce sedentary behaviour in 0-5-year-olds: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-10-2016
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2016-096634
Abstract: To evaluate the effectiveness of behavioural interventions that report sedentary behaviour outcomes during early childhood. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Academic Search Complete, CINAHL Complete, Global Health, MEDLINE Complete, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus with Full Text and EMBASE electronic databases were searched in March 2016. Inclusion criteria were: (1) published in a peer-reviewed English language journal (2) sedentary behaviour outcomes reported (3) randomised controlled trial (RCT) study design and (4) participants were children with a mean age of ≤5.9 years and not yet attending primary/elementary school at postintervention. 31 studies were included in the systematic review and 17 studies in the meta-analysis. The overall mean difference in screen time outcomes between groups was −17.12 (95% CI −28.82 to −5.42) min/day with a significant overall intervention effect (Z=2.87, p=0.004). The overall mean difference in sedentary time between groups was −18.91 (95% CI −33.31 to −4.51) min/day with a significant overall intervention effect (Z=2.57, p=0.01). Subgroup analyses suggest that for screen time, interventions of ≥6 months duration and those conducted in a community-based setting are most effective. For sedentary time, interventions targeting physical activity (and reporting changes in sedentary time) are more effective than those directly targeting sedentary time. Despite heterogeneity in study methods and results, overall interventions to reduce sedentary behaviour in early childhood show significant reductions, suggesting that this may be an opportune time to intervene. CRD42015017090.
Maternal-child co-participation in physical activity-related behaviours: Prevalence and cross-sectional associations with mothers and children's objectively assessed physical activity levels
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-05-2017
Predictors of body mass index change in Australian primary school children
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1080/17477160802191122
Abstract: To assess associations between multiple potential predictors and change in child body mass index (BMI). In the 1997 Health of Young Victorians Study, children in Grades preparatory to three (aged 5-10 years) had their height and weight measured. Parents provided information on potential predictors of childhood overweight across six domains (children's diet, children's activity level, family composition, sociodemographic factors, prenatal factors and parental adiposity). Measures were repeated three years later in 2000/1. BMI was transformed to standardised (z) scores using the US 2000 Growth Chart data and children were classified as non-overweight or overweight according to international cut-points. Regression analyses, including baseline BMI z-score as a covariate, assessed the contribution of each potential predictor to change in BMI z-score, development of overweight and spontaneous resolution of overweight in 1,373 children. BMI z-score change was positively associated with frequency of take-away food, food quantity, total weekly screen time, non-Australian paternal country of birth, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and maternal and paternal BMI. Inverse associations were noted for the presence of siblings and rural residence (all p<0.05). Predictors of categorical change (development and resolution of overweight) were less clearly identified, apart from an association between maternal BMI and overweight development (p=0.02). Multivariable models suggested in idual determinants have a cumulative effect on BMI change. Strong short-term tracking of BMI makes it difficult to identify predictors of change. Nonetheless, putative determinants across all domains assessed were independently associated with adiposity change. Multi-faceted solutions are likely to be required to successfully deal with the complexities of childhood overweight.
Stability of body mass index in Australian children: a prospective cohort study across the middle childhood years.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-2004
DOI: 10.1079/PHN2003537
Abstract: To investigate the prevalence and incidence of overweight and obesity, the frequency of overweight resolution and the influence of parental adiposity during middle childhood. As part of a prospective cohort study, height and weight were measured in 1997 and 2000/2001. Children were classified as non-overweight, overweight or obese based on standard international definitions. Body mass index (BMI) was transformed into age- and gender-specific Z -scores employing the LMS method and 2000 growth chart data of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Parents self-reported height and weight, and were classified as underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obese based on World Health Organization definitions. Primary schools in Victoria, Australia. In total, 1438 children aged 5–10 years at baseline. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased between baseline (15.0 and 4.3%, respectively) and follow-up (19.7 and 4.8%, respectively P 0.001 for increase in overweight and obesity combined). There were 140 incident cases of overweight (9.7% of the cohort) and 24 of obesity (1.7% of the cohort) only 3.8% of the cohort (19.8% of overweight/obese children) resolved to a healthy weight. The stability of child adiposity as measured by BMI category (84.8% remained in the same category) and BMI Z -score ( r = 0.84 mean change = −0.05) was extremely high. Mean change in BMI Z -score decreased with age (linear trend β = 0.03, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.05). The influence of parental adiposity largely disappeared when children's baseline BMI was adjusted for. During middle childhood, the incidence of overweight/obesity exceeds the proportion of children resolving to non-overweight. However, for most children adiposity remains stable, and stability appears to increase with age. Prevention strategies targeting children in early childhood are required.
Transforming Obesity Prevention for CHILDren (TOPCHILD) Collaboration
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-048166
Abstract: Behavioural interventions in early life appear to show some effect in reducing childhood overweight and obesity. However, uncertainty remains regarding their overall effectiveness, and whether effectiveness differs among key subgroups. These evidence gaps have prompted an increase in very early childhood obesity prevention trials worldwide. Combining the in idual participant data (IPD) from these trials will enhance statistical power to determine overall effectiveness and enable examination of in idual and trial-level subgroups. We present a protocol for a systematic review with IPD meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of obesity prevention interventions commencing antenatally or in the first year after birth, and to explore whether there are differential effects among key subgroups. Systematic searches of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycInfo and trial registries for all ongoing and completed randomised controlled trials evaluating behavioural interventions for the prevention of early childhood obesity have been completed up to March 2021 and will be updated annually to include additional trials. Eligible trialists will be asked to share their IPD if unavailable, aggregate data will be used where possible. An IPD meta-analysis and a nested prospective meta-analysis will be performed using methodologies recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. The primary outcome will be body mass index z-score at age 24±6 months using WHO Growth Standards, and effect differences will be explored among prespecified in idual and trial-level subgroups. Secondary outcomes include other child weight-related measures, infant feeding, dietary intake, physical activity, sedentary behaviours, sleep, parenting measures and adverse events. Approved by The University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (2020/273) and Flinders University Social and Behavioural Research Ethics Committee (HREC CIA2133-1). Results will be relevant to clinicians, child health services, researchers, policy-makers and families, and will be disseminated via publications, presentations and media releases. CRD42020177408.
Unpacking the behavioural components and delivery features of early childhood obesity prevention interventions in the TOPCHILD Collaboration: A systematic review and intervention coding protocol
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-048165
Abstract: Little is known about how early (eg, commencing antenatally or in the first 12 months after birth) obesity prevention interventions seek to change behaviour and which components are or are not effective. This study aims to (1) characterise early obesity prevention interventions in terms of target behaviours, delivery features and behaviour change techniques (BCTs), (2) explore similarities and differences in BCTs used to target behaviours and (3) explore effectiveness of intervention components in preventing childhood obesity. Annual comprehensive systematic searches will be performed in Epub Ahead of Print/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane (CENTRAL), CINAHL, PsycINFO, as well as clinical trial registries. Eligible randomised controlled trials of behavioural interventions to prevent childhood obesity commencing antenatally or in the first year after birth will be invited to join the Transforming Obesity in CHILDren Collaboration. Standard ontologies will be used to code target behaviours, delivery features and BCTs in both published and unpublished intervention materials provided by trialists. Narrative syntheses will be performed to summarise intervention components and compare applied BCTs by types of target behaviours. Exploratory analyses will be undertaken to assess effectiveness of intervention components. The study has been approved by The University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (project no. 2020/273) and Flinders University Social and Behavioural Research Ethics Committee (project no. HREC CIA2133-1). The study’s findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and targeted communication with key stakeholders. CRD42020177408.
The importance of long-term follow-up in child and adolescent obesity prevention interventions
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2011
A parent focused child obesity prevention intervention improves some mother obesity risk behaviors: the Melbourne infant program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
Interventions to prevent obesity in 0-5 year olds: An updated systematic review of the literature
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2010
DOI: 10.1038/OBY.2009.429
Abstract: The small number and recency of the early childhood obesity-prevention literature identified in a previous review of interventions to prevent obesity, promote healthy eating, physical activity, and/or reduce sedentary behaviors in 0-5 year olds suggests this is a new and developing research area. The current review was conducted to provide an update of the rapidly emerging evidence in this area and to assess the quality of studies reported. Ten electronic databases were searched to identify literature published from January 1995 to August 2008. interventions reporting child anthropometric, diet, physical activity, or sedentary behavior outcomes and focusing on children aged 0-5 years of age. focusing on breastfeeding, eating disorders, obesity treatment, malnutrition, or school-based interventions. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed study quality. Twenty-three studies met all criteria. Most were conducted in preschool/childcare (n = 9) or home settings (n = 8). Approximately half targeted socioeconomically disadvantaged children (n = 12) and three quarters were published from 2003 onward (n = 17). The interventions varied widely although most were multifaceted in their approach. While study design and quality varied most studies reported their interventions were feasible and acceptable, although impact on behaviors that contribute to obesity were not achieved by all. Early childhood obesity-prevention interventions represent a rapidly growing research area. Current evidence suggests that behaviors that contribute to obesity can be positively impacted in a range of settings and provides important insights into the most effective strategies for promoting healthy weight from early childhood.
Parents' dietary patterns are significantly correlated: findings from the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 11-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0007114511005757
Abstract: The objectives of the present study were to identify dietary patterns independently in first-time mothers and fathers, and to examine whether these patterns were correlated within families. Dietary intakes were collected at baseline in the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program using a validated FFQ in 454 pairs of first-time mothers and fathers. Education level was reported in associated questionnaires. Principal components analyses included frequencies of fifty-five food groups and were performed independently in mothers and fathers. Spearman's correlation coefficients were used to assess associations between dietary pattern scores. A total of four dietary patterns were identified in mothers and fathers. Of these, three dietary patterns had similar characteristics between these two populations, namely ‘Fruits and vegetables’, ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’, ‘High-fat foods’ in mothers and ‘Fruits’, ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’, ‘High-fat foods’ in fathers. The following two additional patterns were identified: ‘Cereals and sweet foods’ in mothers and ‘Potatoes and vegetables’ in fathers. Patterns incorporating healthier food items were found to be positively associated with parent education. An inverse association with education was found for the ‘High-fat foods’ and ‘High-energy snack and processed foods’ dietary patterns. Qualitatively similar patterns between corresponding mothers and fathers were the most strongly correlated (ρ = 0·34–0·45, P 0·001). There were some differences in dietary patterns between mothers and fathers, suggesting that it is worth deriving patterns separately when considering couples, and more generally between men and women. Exploring how these various patterns correlate within households provides important insights to guide the development and implementation of family-based interventions.
Reallocating sedentary time with total physical activity and physical activity bouts in children: Associations with cardiometabolic biomarkers
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-09-2021
Objectively measured sedentary behaviour and health and development in children and adolescents: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-02-2016
DOI: 10.1111/OBR.12371
Abstract: Sedentary behaviour has emerged as a unique determinant of health in adults. Studies in children and adolescents have been less consistent. We reviewed the evidence to determine if the total volume and patterns (i.e. breaks and bouts) of objectively measured sedentary behaviour were associated with adverse health outcomes in young people, independent of moderate-intensity to vigorous-intensity physical activity. Four electronic databases (EMBASE MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, PubMed and Scopus) were searched (up to 12 November 2015) to retrieve studies among 2- to 18-year-olds, which used cross-sectional, longitudinal or experimental designs, and examined associations with health outcomes (adiposity, cardio-metabolic, fitness, respiratory, bone/musculoskeletal, psychosocial, cognition/academic achievement, gross motor development and other outcomes). Based on 88 eligible observational studies, level of evidence grading and quantitative meta-analyses indicated that there is limited available evidence that the total volume or patterns of sedentary behaviour are associated with health in children and adolescents when accounting for moderate-intensity to vigorous-intensity physical activity or focusing on studies with low risk of bias. Quality evidence from studies with robust designs and methods, objective measures of sitting, examining associations for various health outcomes, is needed to better understand if the overall volume or patterns of sedentary behaviour are independent determinants of health in children and adolescents.
A Review of the Relationship Between Socioeconomic Position and the Early-Life Predictors of Obesity
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-06-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S13679-015-0168-5
Abstract: A range of important early-life predictors of later obesity have been identified. Children of lower socioeconomic position (SEP) have a steeper weight gain trajectory from birth with a strong socioeconomic gradient in child and adult obesity prevalence. An assessment of the association between SEP and the early-life predictors of obesity has been lacking. The review involved a two-stage process: Part 1, using previously published systematic reviews, we developed a list of the potentially modifiable determinants of obesity observable in the pre-natal, peri-natal or post-natal (pre-school) periods and part 2, conducting a literature review of evidence for socioeconomic patterning in the determinants identified in part 1. Strong evidence was found for an inverse relationship between SEP and (1) pre-natal risk factors (pre-pregnancy maternal body mass index (BMI), diabetes and pre-pregnancy diet), (2) antenatal eri natal risk factors (smoking during pregnancy and low birth weight) and (3) early-life nutrition (including breastfeeding initiation and duration, early introduction of solids, maternal and infant diet quality, and some aspects of the home food environment), and television viewing in young children. Less strong evidence (because of a lack of studies for some factors) was found for paternal BMI, maternal weight gain during pregnancy, child sleep duration, high birth weight and lack of physical activity in young children. A strong socioeconomic gradient exists for the majority of the early-life predictors of obesity suggesting that the die is cast very early in life (even pre-conception). Lifestyle interventions targeting disadvantaged women at or before child-bearing age may therefore be particularly important in reducing inequality. Given the likely challenges of reaching this target population, it may be that during pregnancy and their child's early years are more feasible windows for engagement.
Stability of television viewing and electronic game/computer use in a prospective cohort study of Australian children: Relationship with body mass index
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2007
Physical environments, policies and practices for physical activity and screen-based sedentary behaviour among preschoolers within child care centres in Melbourne, Australia and Kingston, Canada
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-06-2015
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12156
Abstract: Characteristics of preschool and child care centres have previously been shown to be associated with children's health behaviours such as physical activity and screen-based sedentary behaviour. This paper investigates differences in physical environments, policies and practices between child care centres in Melbourne, Australia and Kingston, Canada which may be associated with such behaviours. Audits of child care centres were undertaken by trained research assistants for the Healthy Active Preschool and Primary Years (Melbourne, Australia n = 136) study and the Healthy Living Habits in Pre-School Children (Kingston, Canada n = 46) study. Twenty-one of the audit items (nine physical environment 12 policies and practices) were assessed in both s les. Ex le items included outdoor play and shaded areas, availability of equipment, physical activity instruction for children and staff, opportunities to use electronic media and staff/child interaction during physical activity time. Analyses were completed using SAS version 9.2. Compared with Australian centres, a higher per cent of Canadian centres had a formal physical activity policy, reported children sat more frequently for 30 min or more and allowed children to watch television. A higher per cent of Australian centres provided an indoor area for physical activity, shade outdoors and physical activity education to staff. Children in Australian centres had access to more fixed play equipment and spent more time outdoors than in Canadian centres. These findings may help inform the development of best practice and policy guidelines to enhance opportunities for healthy levels of physical activity and screen-based sedentary behaviour within child care centres in both countries.
Influence of peers on breastfeeding discontinuation among new parents: The melbourne inFANT program
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 09-2010
Abstract: We aimed to investigate whether the proportion of breastfeeding mothers in first-time parent groups influenced the likelihood of ceasing breastfeeding and whether this was independent of socioeconomic position. Data were from 501 mothers (from 62 first-time parent groups initiated ∼6 weeks after birth) who provided data at the baseline and mid-intervention assessments of the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity, and Nutrition Trial. Parent groups were ided into those in which ≤25% of mothers had ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks (low-cessation groups) and those in which & % had ceased by 6 weeks (high-cessation groups). With the exclusion of mothers who had already ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks, the proportion of mothers who ceased breastfeeding between the time of parent group initiation (6 weeks) and 6 months was higher in high-cessation groups than in low-cessation groups (37.4% vs 21.7% P = .001). After adjustment for maternal age, BMI, employment, and education and area-level socioeconomic position, membership in a group in which a large proportion of mothers had ceased breastfeeding by 6 weeks was strongly related to cessation of breastfeeding before 6 months (odds ratio: 2.1 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–3.3]). Attendance at parent groups where peers are breastfeeding infants of a similar age may have an important influence on the continuation of breastfeeding to 6 months. First-time parent groups or other similar groups may be an important setting in which to promote the continuation of breastfeeding.
Associations of parental rules and socioeconomic position with preschool children's sedentary behaviour and screen time
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2015
Abstract: There is little current understanding of the influences on sedentary behavior and screen time in preschool children. This study investigated socioeconomic position (SEP) and parental rules as potential correlates of preschool children’s sedentary behavior and screen time. Data from the Healthy Active Preschool Years (HAPPY) Study were used. Participating parents reported their child’s usual weekly screen time and their rules to regulate their child’s screen time. Children wore accelerometers for 8 days to objectively measure sedentary time. Children whose parents limited television viewing spent significantly less time in that behavior and in total screen time however, overall sedentary behavior was unaffected. An association between parents limiting computer/electronic game use and time spent on the computer was found for girls only. SEP was inversely associated with girls’, but not boys’, total screen time and television viewing. As parental rules were generally associated with lower levels of screen time, intervention strategies could potentially encourage parents to set limits on, and switch off, screen devices. Intervention strategies should target preschool children across all SEP areas, as there was no difference by SEP in overall sedentary behavior or screen time for boys.
Variation in outcomes of the Melbourne Infant, Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program according to maternal education and age
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2013.10.021
Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program according to maternal education and age. A cluster-randomised controlled trial involving 542 mother/infant pairs from 62 existing first-time parent groups was conducted in 2008 in Melbourne, Australia. The intervention involved 6 × 2-hour dietitian-delivered sessions, DVD and written resources from infant age 4-15 months. Outcomes included infant diet (3 × 24 h diet recalls), physical activity (accelerometry), television viewing and body mass index. We tested for moderation by maternal education (with/without a University degree) and age (< 32 and ≥ 32 years). The trial was registered with the ISRCTN Register (identifier 81847050). Interaction effects with the treatment arm were observed for maternal education and age. The intervention effects on vegetable (positive effect) and sweet snack consumption (negative effect) were greater in children with higher educated mothers while intervention effects on water consumption (positive effect) were greater in infants with lower educated mothers. The intervention was also more effective in increasing both vegetable and water consumption in infants with mothers aged < 32 years. Child obesity prevention interventions may be differentially effective according to maternal education and age. Evidence of differential effects is important for informing more sensitively targeted/tailored approaches.
Regional and urban Victorian diabetic youth: Clinical and quality-of-life outcomes
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-11-2002
DOI: 10.1046/J.1440-1754.2002.00060.X
Abstract: To compare groups of urban and regional Victorian diabetic children and assess their quality of life, diabetes knowledge, access to services and metabolic control. Forty-seven children from three regional Victorian communities (Horsham, Warrnambool and Sale n = 16, 18 and 13, respectively) were compared with 120 age-, sex- and duration of diabetes-matched children attending the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) diabetes clinic in Melbourne. Quality of life, diabetes knowledge, use of services, and metabolic control were assessed using the child health questionnaire (CHQ PF-50/CF-80) a diabetes-knowledge questionnaire access to a diabetes nurse educator (DNE), dietitian and complication screening and indices of mean HbA1C (values are taken every 3 months in the 'yearly HbA1C'), respectively. Comparisons of CHQ data showed that regional diabetic youth scored significantly lower on most subscales. The greatest deficits were seen in areas of mental health, self-esteem, parent impact (emotional) and family cohesion. Diabetes knowledge and median yearly HbA1C for patients were not significantly different between the regional and urban centres (8.1%, 8.9%, 8.4% and 8.6% at RCH, Horsham, Warrnambool and Sale, respectively). Patients in regional centres had reportedly less access to team-based diabetes care. Regional youth in Victoria, with similar levels of metabolic control and diabetes knowledge as their urban counterparts, have a markedly lower quality of life, implying a negative synergy between diabetes and the demands of regional lifestyles.
Funding for child obesity prevention in Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2011
Television, computer use and body mass index in Australian primary school children
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2003
DOI: 10.1046/J.1440-1754.2003.00104.X
Abstract: To investigate relationships between children's body mass index (BMI) and parent reports of children's television and video game/computer habits, controlling for other potential risk factors for paediatric obesity. Child BMI was calculated from measured height and weight collected in 1997 as part of a large, representative, cross-sectional study of children in Victoria, Australia. Parents reported the amount of time children watched television and used video games/computers, children's eating and activity habits, parental BMI and sociodemographic details. A total of 2862 children aged 5-13 years participated. Child mean BMI z-score was significantly related to television (F = 10.23, P < 0.001) but not video game/computer time (F = 2.23, P = 0.09), but accounted for only 1 and 0.2% of total BMI variance, respectively. When parental BMI, parental education, number of siblings, food intake, organized exercise and general activity level were included, television ceased to be independently significantly related to child BMI. Using adjusted logistic regression, the odds of being overweight and obese generally increased with increasing television viewing. No relationship was found for video game/computer use. A small proportion of variance in child BMI was related to television, but not video game/computer time. This was far outweighed by the influence of other variables. Causal pathways are likely to be complex and interrelated.
A systematic review of economic evaluations of web‐based or telephone‐delivered interventions for preventing overweight and obesity and/or improving obesity‐related behaviors
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-03-2021
DOI: 10.1111/OBR.13227
Abstract: Obesity prevention interventions with behavioral or lifestyle‐related components delivered via web‐based or telephone technologies have been reported as comparatively low cost as compared with other intervention delivery modes, yet to date, no synthesized evidence of cost‐effectiveness has been published. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of economic evaluations of obesity prevention interventions with a telehealth or eHealth intervention component. A systematic search of six academic databases was conducted through October 2020. Studies were included if they reported full economic evaluations of interventions aimed at preventing overweight or obesity, or interventions aimed at improving obesity‐related behaviors, with at least one intervention component delivered by telephone (telehealth) or web‐based technology (eHealth). Findings were reported narratively, based on the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards. Twenty‐seven economic evaluations were included from 20 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Sixteen of the included interventions had a telehealth component, whereas 11 had an eHealth component. Seventeen interventions were evaluated using cost‐utility analysis, five with cost‐effectiveness analysis, and five undertook both cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility analyses. Only eight cost‐utility analyses reported that the intervention was cost‐effective. Comparison of results from cost‐effectiveness analyses was limited by heterogeneity in methods and outcome units reported. The evidence supporting the cost‐effectiveness of interventions with a telehealth or eHealth delivery component is currently inconclusive. Although obesity prevention telehealth and eHealth interventions are gaining popularity, more evidence is required on their effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness.
Cost comparison of five Australasian obesity prevention interventions for children aged from birth to two years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-06-2020
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12684
Results from the Australian 2022 Report Card on physical activity for children and young people
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Differences Between Mothers and Fathers of Young Children in Their Use of the Internet to Support Healthy Family Lifestyle Behaviors: Cross-Sectional Study
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 23-01-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11454
Associations between family circumstance and weight status of Australian children
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1080/17477160601148554
Abstract: To examine associations between weight status and multiple indicators of family circumstance in Australian elementary school children. Data were combined from the 2001 Children's Leisure Activities Study (CLAS Study) and 2002/3 Health, Eating and Play Study (HEAP Study), involving 2520 children in Grades Prep (mean age 6 years) and 5-6 (mean age 11 years) in Melbourne, Australia. Children's body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured height and weight. Weight status (non-overweight or overweight) was determined according to International Obesity Taskforce cut-off points and BMI was transformed to z-scores based on the 2000 US growth chart data. Parents reported family circumstance (number of parents in the home, marital status, presence of siblings, parental education, parental employment status, parental work hours [HEAP Study only]) and parental BMI. Regression analyses were conducted for the s le overall and separately for young girls, young boys, older girls and older boys. Children in single-parent homes, those without siblings, and those with less educated mothers and fathers tended to have higher z-BMIs (p=0.002, p=0.003, p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively) and were more likely to be overweight (p=0.003, p<0.001, p<0.001 and p=0.02, respectively). Associations were stronger for older children. Parental employment and work hours were not consistently associated with child weight status. The multivariable models did not demonstrate a cumulative explanatory effect (R(2)=0.02), except when maternal BMI was included (R(2)=0.07). In idual measures of family circumstance were differentially associated with child weight status and appeared to be largely independent of other measures of family circumstance. Childhood overweight interventions may need to be tailored based on the age, gender, maternal BMI and family circumstances of the target group.
The Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (INFANT) an early intervention to prevent childhood obesity: Cluster-randomised controlled trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-03-2008
Abstract: Multiple factors combine to support a compelling case for interventions that target the development of obesity-promoting behaviours (poor diet, low physical activity and high sedentary behaviour) from their inception. These factors include the rapidly increasing prevalence of fatness throughout childhood, the instigation of obesity-promoting behaviours in infancy, and the tracking of these behaviours from childhood through to adolescence and adulthood. The Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (INFANT) aims to determine the effectiveness of an early childhood obesity prevention intervention delivered to first-time parents. The intervention, conducted with parents over the infant's first 18 months of life, will use existing social networks (first-time parent's groups) and an anticipatory guidance framework focusing on parenting skills which support the development of positive diet and physical activity behaviours, and reduced sedentary behaviours in infancy. This cluster-randomised controlled trial, with first-time parent groups as the unit of randomisation, will be conducted with a s le of 600 first-time parents and their newborn children who attend the first-time parents' group at Maternal and Child Health Centres. Using a two-stage s ling process, local government areas in Victoria, Australia will be randomly selected at the first stage. At the second stage, a proportional s le of first-time parent groups within selected local government areas will be randomly selected and invited to participate. Informed consent will be obtained and groups will then be randomly allocated to the intervention or control group. The early years hold promise as a time in which obesity prevention may be most effective. To our knowledge this will be the first randomised trial internationally to demonstrate whether an early health promotion program delivered to first-time parents in their existing social groups promotes healthy eating, physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviours. If proven to be effective, INFANT may protect children from the development of obesity and its associated social and economic costs. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN81847050
Mothers’ perceptions of the influences on their child feeding practices – A qualitative study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.06.031
Abstract: Children's diets are important determinants of their health, but typically do not meet recommendations. Parents' feeding practices, such as pressure or restriction, are important influences on child diets, but reasons why parents use particular feeding practices, and malleability of such practices, are not well understood. This qualitative study aimed to explore mothers' perceptions of influences on their feeding practices, and assess whether an intervention promoting recommended feeding practices was perceived as influential. The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program was a cluster-randomised controlled trial involving 542 families aiming to improve child diets. Following the trial, when children were two years old, 81 intervention arm mothers were invited to participate in qualitative interviews, and 26 accepted (32%). Thematic analysis of interview transcripts used a tabular thematic framework. Eight major themes were identified regarding perceived influences on child feeding practices. Broadly these encompassed: practical considerations, family setting, formal information sources, parents' own upbringing, learning from friends and family, learning from child and experiences, and parents' beliefs about food and feeding. Additionally, the Melbourne InFANT Program was perceived by most respondents as influential. In particular, many mothers reported being previously unaware of some recommended feeding practices, and that learning and adopting those practices made child feeding easier. These findings suggest that a variety of influences impact mothers' child feeding practices. Health practitioners should consider these factors in providing feeding advice to parents, and researchers should consider these factors in planning interventions.
Associations between dietary intakes of first-Time fathers and their 20-month-old children are moderated by fathers' BMI, education and age
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 18-08-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0007114515002755
Abstract: Children’s learning about food is considerable during their formative years, with parental influence being pivotal. Research has focused predominantly on maternal influences, with little known about the relationships between fathers’ and children’s diets. Greater understanding of this relationship is necessary for the design of appropriate interventions. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between the diets of fathers and their children and the moderating effects of fathers’ BMI, education and age on these associations. The diets of fathers and their first-born children ( n 317) in the Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program were assessed using an FFQ and 3×24-h recalls, respectively. The InFANT Program is a cluster-randomised controlled trial in the setting of first-time parents groups in Victoria, Australia. Associations between father and child fruit, vegetable, non-core food and non-core drink intakes were assessed using linear regression. The extent to which these associations were mediated by maternal intake was tested. Moderation of associations by paternal BMI, education and age was assessed. Positive associations were found between fathers’ and children’s intake of fruit, sweet snacks and take-away foods. Paternal BMI, education and age moderated the relationships found for the intakes of fruit (BMI), vegetables (age), savoury snacks (BMI and education) and take-away foods (BMI and education). Our findings suggest that associations exist at a young age and are moderated by paternal BMI, education and age. This study highlights the importance of fathers in modelling healthy diets for their children.
A systematic review of the validity and reliability of sedentary behaviour measures used with children and adolescents
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-06-2011
The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program follow-up
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.CCT.2012.10.008
Abstract: The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program, is a community-based, cluster-randomised controlled trial of an obesity prevention intervention delivered to first-time parents of infants from age 4-20 months. Conducted from 2008 to 2010, the program had high uptake and retention and showed positive impacts on some dietary outcomes and television viewing. Funding was secured for a follow-up study of participants two and 3.5 years post intervention (at child ages ~3.5 and 5 years). The follow-up study aims to assess intervention effects, mediators and moderators of effects, and program cost-effectiveness over the longer term. The 492 families still enrolled in the Melbourne InFANT Program at intervention conclusion will be recontacted and renewed consent sought to participate in this follow-up study. No further intervention will occur. Home visit data collections will occur approximately two and 3.5 years post intervention. Main outcomes to be assessed include child body mass index, waist circumference, diet (3 × 24-hour recalls food frequency questionnaire), physical activity (8 days ActiGraph accelerometer data parent reported active play) and sedentary time (8days ActiGraph accelerometer and ActivPAL inclinometer data parent reported screen time). Follow-up of participants of the Melbourne InFANT Program at two and 3.5 years post intervention will allow assessment of longer term intervention effects, investigation of potential mediators and moderators of such effects, and economic evaluation of the longer term outcomes. This information will be valuable to researchers and policy makers in progressing the field of early childhood obesity prevention.
The Child Health Questionnaire in Australia: reliability, validity and population means
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2000
DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-842X.2000.TB00145.X
Abstract: To provide reliability, validity and population means for the Australian Authorized Adaptation of the parent-report Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ). We surveyed a representative s le of Australian parents of school-aged children (5-18 years) in Victoria between July and December 1997, using a school-based cluster s le design stratified by educational sector and age. Some 5,414 parents responded (72%). Good psychometric performance was observed for the CHQ in Australia. Population means demonstrated differences in health on domains of functioning and well-being by age and gender. This population-derived s le demonstrated high ceiling values on Physical Functioning and Social Role scales. The CHQ appears to be a reliable and valid measure of child and adolescent functional health and well-being for the Australian population. Child health outcomes of children and adolescents with particular conditions or within population subgroups can be compared with these age and gender benchmarks. Appropriate uses for the CHQ may be to discriminate between children who are generally healthy and children with health problems, or in population surveys partnered with measures that extend the range of physical functioning and social functioning.
Mediators of improved child diet quality following a health promotion intervention: The Melbourne InFANT Program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-11-2014
Psychometric Properties of a Parental Questionnaire for Assessing Correlates of Toddlers’ Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-05-2017
Are safety-related features of the road environment associated with smaller declines in physical activity among youth?
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2010
The HAPPY Study: Development and reliability of a parent survey to assess correlates of preschool children's physical activity
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2011.12.009
Abstract: Correlates of preschool children's physical activity across all domains of the social ecological model have previously been reported in the literature. However, there is a scarcity of reliable instruments designed to capture such correlates in preschool-aged children. This study reports the development, and assessment of the test-retest and internal reliability of a comprehensive proxy survey instrument designed to measure correlates of preschool children's physical activity across the three domains of the social ecological model. Study one included data from 47 parents of preschool aged (3-5 years) children who completed the survey on two occasions. Study two included data from 943 participants who completed the survey as part of the larger Healthy Active Preschool Years Study. A comprehensive search of the literature and a series of focus groups were used to identify potential correlates for inclusion in the survey. Study one investigated the test-retest reliability of the survey study two investigated internal reliability. Test-retest reliability was assessed using Kappa statistics and percent agreement for categorical variables, and intraclass correlation for continuous variables. Internal reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha. In total, 230 items, summed and composite scores were assessed. Of those items, 190 (83%) showed acceptable reliability. The majority of items in each domain of the social ecological model--in idual (75%), social (81%) and physical environment (90%)--showed acceptable reliability. The Healthy Active Preschool Years parent proxy survey shows good reliability and is appropriate for use with the target population. Future studies should investigate validity of the constructs in the survey.
Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between parents' and preschoolers' physical activity and television viewing: The HAPPY study
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2016
Abstract: Parental modeling has been shown to be important for school-aged children’s physical activity (PA) and television (TV) viewing, yet little is known about its impact for younger children. This study examined cross-sectional and 3-year longitudinal associations between PA and TV viewing behaviors of parents and their preschool children. In 2008–2009 (T1), parents in the Healthy Active Preschool and Primary Years (HAPPY) cohort study (n = 450) in Melbourne, Australia, self-reported their weekly PA and TV viewing and proxy-reported their partner’s PA and TV viewing and their 3- to 5-year-old preschool child’s TV viewing. Children’s PA was assessed via accelerometers. Repeat data collection occurred in 2011–2012 (T2). Mothers’ and fathers’ PAs were associated with PA among preschool girls at T1, but not boys. Parents’ TV viewing times were significant correlates of girls’ and boys’ TV viewing at T1. Longitudinally, mothers’ PA at baseline predicted boys’ PA at T2, whereas sex-specific associations were found for TV viewing, with mothers’ and fathers’ TV viewing at T1 associated with girls’ and boys’ TV viewing respectively at T2. The PA and TV viewing of both parents are significantly associated with these behaviors in preschool children. The influence of the sex-matched parent appears to be important longitudinally for children’s TV viewing.
How does perceived risk mediate associations between perceived safety and parental restriction of adolescents' physical activity in their neighborhood?
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
How should activity guidelines for young people be operationalised?
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2007
Preschool and childcare center characteristics associated with children’s physical activity during care hours: an observational study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-11-2016
Parent-reported health status of overweight and obese Australian primary school children: a cross-sectional population survey.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-2002
Abstract: Childhood overweight/obesity is associated with poor physical and psychosocial health in clinical s les. However, there is little information on the health status of overweight and obese children in the community, who now represent a large proportion of the child population. We examined parent-reported child health and well-being and parent concern about child weight by body mass index (BMI) category in a population s le of primary school children. A stratified two-stage random cluster s le of 24 primary schools representative of the state of Victoria, Australia. BMI (weight/height(2)) transformed to normalised Z-scores using the 1990 UK Growth Reference the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), a 13-scale 50-item parent-completed measure of health and well-being parent self-reported height and weight parent concern about child's weight. Data were available for 2863 children aged 5-13 y (50.5% male), of whom 17% were overweight and 5.7% obese. Using logistic regression analyses with 'normal weight' as the referent category, obese boys were at greater risk of poor health (ie <15th centile) on seven of the 12 CHQ scales: Physical Functioning (odds ratio (OR) 2.8), Bodily Pain (OR 1.8), General Health (OR 3.5), Mental Health (OR 2.8), Self Esteem (OR 1.8), Parent Impact-Emotional (OR 1.7) and Parent Impact-Time (OR 1.9). Obese girls were at greater risk of poor health on only two scales: General Health (OR 2.1) and Self Esteem (OR 1.8). Forty-two percent of parents with obese children and 81% with overweight children did not report concern about their child's weight. Parents were more likely to report concern if the child was obese (OR 21.3), overweight (OR 3.5) or underweight (OR 5.4) than normal weight (P<0.05). Concern was not related to child gender, parental BMI or parental education after controlling for child BMI. Perceived health and well-being of overweight/obese children varied little by weight category of the reporting parent (overweight vs non-overweight). Parents were more likely to report poorer health and well-being for overweight and obese children (particularly obese boys). Parental concern about their child's weight was strongly associated with their child's actual BMI. Despite this, most parents of overweight and obese children did not report poor health or well-being, and a high proportion did not report concern. This has implications for the early identification of such children and the success of prevention and intervention efforts. DOI:10.1038/sj/ijo/0801974
Health-related quality of life of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: comparisons and correlations between parent and clinician reports.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-11-2003
DOI: 10.1002/IJC.10815
Abstract: The improving prognosis for children with cancer refocuses attention to long-term outcomes with an emphasis on quality of life. Few studies have examined relationships and differences in reported results between the parent, child and clinician. We examined parent-proxy and clinician-reported functional status and health-related quality of life for children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Children and adolescents, 5-18 years, in the maintenance phase of treatment for ALL attending the Haematology/Oncology outpatient clinic at the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, were eligible. Measures included: 1) parent-reported functional health and well-being (Child Health Questionnaire [CHQ]) 2) parent-reported condition specific quality of life (Pediatric Cancer Quality of Life inventory [PCQL]) 3) clinician ratings of physical and psychosocial health and 4) clinical indicators. Insufficient numbers of older patients prohibited collection of adolescent self-reports. We had a 94% response and 31 participants. Mean time since diagnosis: 1.5 (SD 0.4) years. Parents reported significantly lower functioning and well-being than population norms for all CHQ scales, whereas cancer-specific quality of life was comparable to PCQL norms. Clinician reports of the child's global physical and psychosocial health were moderately associated with each other (r(s) = 0.56, p < 0.001), and with the parent-reported physical (r(s) = 0.47, p < 0.01) and psychosocial (r(s) = 0.56, p < 0.001) CHQ summary scores. Clinician reports of the child's psychosocial health were not associated with any clinical indicators reported regularly. The results demonstrate that the social, physical and emotional health and well-being of children with ALL is significantly poorer than the health of their community-based peers. Routinely collected indicators of clinical progress conceal the psychosocial burden of ALL. Data on health, well-being and quality of life can easily be incorporated into clinical care.
Electronic Media Use and Adolescent Health and Well-Being: Cross-Sectional Community Study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACAP.2009.04.003
Abstract: To describe time adolescents spend using electronic media (television, computer, video games, and telephone) and to examine associations between self-reported health/well-being and daily time spent using electronic media overall and each type of electronic media. Design-Cross-sectional data from the third (2005) wave of the Health of Young Victorians Study, an Australian school-based population study. Outcome Measures-Global health, health-related quality of life (HRQoL KIDSCREEN), health status (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 PedsQL), depression/anxiety (Kessler-10), and behavior problems (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire). Exposure Measures-Duration of electronic media use averaged over 1 to 4 days recalled with the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA) computerized time-use diary. Analysis-Linear and logistic regression adjusted for demographic variables and body mass index z score. A total of 925 adolescents (mean +/- standard deviation age, 16.1+/-1.2 years) spent, on average, 3 hours 16 minutes per day using electronic media (television, 128 minutes per day video games, 35 computers, 19 telephone, 13). High overall electronic media use was associated with poorer behavior, health status, and HRQoL. Associations with duration of specific media exposures were mixed there was a favorable association between computer use (typing/Internet) and psychological distress, whereas high video game use was associated with poorer health status, HRQoL, global health, and depression/anxiety. Television and telephone durations were not associated with any outcome measure. Despite television's associations with obesity, time spent in other forms of media use appear more strongly related to adolescent health and well-being. This study supports efforts to reduce high video game use and further exploration of the role of computers in health enhancement.
The extended Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT Extend) Program: a cluster-randomized controlled trial of an early intervention to prevent childhood obesity
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-02-2016
Influences on Preschool Children's Physical Activity
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2011
Fathers’ perspectives on the diets and physical activity behaviours of their young children
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 12-06-2017
Maternal dietary intake and physical activity habits during the postpartum period: associations with clinician advice in a sample of Australian first time mothers
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-2016
Preschool Children and Physical Activity
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2008.02.001
Abstract: Several reviews have summarized the research on correlates of older children's and adolescents' physical activity behaviors, but none have been published on preschool children. Over the past 27 years, a number of studies have investigated the correlates of preschool children's physical activity behaviors. It is timely and necessary to review the extant literature in this area. This paper reviews articles investigating correlates of preschool children's physical activity behaviors published in peer-reviewed journals between 1980 and March 2007. A literature search was conducted to identify studies that investigated correlates of preschool children's physical activity. Data were collected and analyzed in 2007. Twenty-four articles were identified that met the inclusion criteria. From those articles, 39 variables were identified across five domains. Results showed that boys were more active than girls, that children with active parents tended to be more active, and that children who spent more time outdoors were more active than children who spent less time outdoors. Age and BMI were consistently shown to have no association with preschool children's physical activity. Other variables produced largely inconclusive results. The influences on the physical activity behaviors of preschool children are multidimensional. Further research is required to enhance an understanding of these influences.
Translating an early childhood obesity prevention program for local community implementation: A case study of the Melbourne InFANT Program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-08-2016
A cluster-randomized controlled trial to reduce sedentary behavior and promote physical activity and health of 8-9 year olds: The Transform-Us! Study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-10-2011
The effect of an early childhood obesity intervention on father's obesity risk behaviors: the Melbourne InFANT Program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2014
Validity of an Infant Tummy Time Questionnaire and Time-use Diary against the GENEActiv Accelerometer
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-06-2021
Longitudinal levels and bouts of objectively measured sedentary time among young Australian children in the HAPPY study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
A bi-directional relationship between obesity and health-related quality of life: Evidence from the longitudinal AusDiab study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-05-2012
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2011.103
Abstract: To assess the prospective relationship between obesity and health-related quality of life, including a novel assessment of the impact of health-related quality of life on weight gain. Longitudinal, national, population-based Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle (AusDiab) study, with surveys conducted in 1999/2000 and 2004/2005. A total of 5985 men and women aged ≥ 25 years at study entry. At both time points, height, weight and waist circumference were measured and self-report data on health-related quality of life from the SF-36 questionnaire were obtained. Cross-sectional and bi-directional, prospective associations between obesity categories and health-related quality of life were assessed. Higher body mass index (BMI) at baseline was associated with deterioration in health-related quality of life over 5 years for seven of the eight health-related quality of life domains in women (all P ≤ 0.01, with the exception of mental health, P>0.05), and six out of eight in men (all P 0.05). Each of the quality-of-life domains related to mental health as well as the mental component summary were inversely associated with BMI change (all P<0.0001 for women and P ≤ 0.01 for men), with the exception of vitality, which was significant in women only (P=0.008). For the physical domains, change in BMI was inversely associated with baseline general health in women only (P=0.023). Obesity was associated with a deterioration in health-related quality of life (including both physical and mental health domains) in this cohort of Australian adults followed over 5 years. Health-related quality of life was also a predictor of weight gain over 5 years, indicating a bi-directional association between obesity and health-related quality of life. The identification of those with poor health-related quality of life may be important in assessing the risk of future weight gain, and a focus on health-related quality of life may be beneficial in weight management strategies.
Does preschool physical activity and electronic media use predict later social and emotional skills at 6 to 8 years? A cohort study
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2017
Abstract: Little is known about the associations of preschoolers’ health behaviors with their later psychosocial wellbeing. This study investigates the association of 3- to 5-year-old children’s physical activity and electronic media use with their later social-emotional skills (6-8 years). Data were collected in 2008–2009 and 2011–2012 for the Healthy Active Preschool and Primary Years (HAPPY) Study in metropolitan Melbourne. Participants were a random subs le (n = 108) of the 567 children at follow-up. Physical activity was objectively measured using ActiGraph GT1M accelerometers electronic media use (television viewing, sedentary electronic games and active electronic games) was parent proxy-reported. Social and emotional skills were child-reported using the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory—Youth Version. Regression analyses controlled for sex, clustering by center of recruitment, and accelerometer wear time (for physical activity analyses). Sedentary electronic games were positively associated with intrapersonal and stress management skills and total emotional quotient. Computer/internet use was inversely associated with interpersonal, and positively associated with stress management, skills. Findings suggest that physical activity is not associated with children’s psychosocial health while some types of electronic media use are. Future research should investigate the contexts in which preschoolers participate in these behaviors and potential causal mechanisms of associations.
Association between maternal education and diet of children at 9 months is partially explained by mothers' diet
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-04-2015
DOI: 10.1111/MCN.12031
Long-term outcomes (2 and 3.5 years post-intervention) of the INFANT early childhood intervention to improve health behaviors and reduce obesity: cluster randomised controlled trial follow-up
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-07-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-020-00994-9
Abstract: The few health behavior interventions commencing in infancy have shown promising effects. Greater insight into their longer-term benefits is required. This study aimed to assess post-intervention effects of the Melbourne INFANT Program to child age 5y on diet, movement and adiposity. Two and 3.5y post-intervention follow-up (2011–13 analyses completed 2019) of participants retained in the Melbourne INFANT Program at its conclusion (child age ~ 19 m 2008–10) was conducted. The Melbourne INFANT Program is a 15-month, six session program delivered within first-time parent groups in Melbourne, Australia, between child age 4-19 m. It involves strategies to help parents promote healthy diet, physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior in their infants. No intervention was delivered during the follow-up period reported in this paper. At all time points height, weight and waist circumference were measured by researchers, children wore Actigraph and activPAL accelerometers for 8-days, mothers reported children’s television viewing and use of health services. Children’s dietary intake was reported by mothers in three unscheduled telephone-administered 24-h recalls. Of those retained at program conclusion (child age 18 m, n = 480 89%), 361 families (75% retention) participated in the first follow-up (2y post-intervention age 3.6y) and 337 (70% retention) in the second follow-up (3.5y post-intervention age 5y). At 3.6y children in the intervention group had higher fruit (adjusted mean difference [MD] = 25.34 g CI 95 :1.68,48.99), vegetable (MD = 19.41 CI 95 :3.15,35.67) and water intake (MD = 113.33 CI 95 :40.42,186.25), than controls. At 5y they consumed less non-core drinks (MD = -27.60 CI 95 :-54.58,-0.62). Sweet snack intake was lower for intervention children at both 3.6y (MD = -5.70 CI 95 :-9.75,-1.65) and 5y (MD = -6.84 CI 95 :-12.47,-1.21). Intervention group children viewed approximately 10 min/day less television than controls at both follow-ups, although the confidence intervals spanned zero (MD = -9.63 CI 95 :-30.79,11.53 MD = -11.34 CI 95 :-25.02,2.34, respectively). There was no evidence for effect on zBMI, waist circumference z-score or physical activity. The impact of this low-dose intervention delivered during infancy was still evident up to school commencement age for several targeted health behaviors but not adiposity. Some of these effects were only observed after the conclusion of the intervention, demonstrating the importance of long-term follow-up of interventions delivered during early childhood. ISRCTN Register ISRCTN81847050 , registered 7th November 2007.
More active pre-school children have better motor competence at school starting age: an observational cohort study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2016
Tracking of maternal self-efficacy for limiting young children’s television viewing and associations with children’s television viewing time: a longitudinal analysis over 15-months
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-05-2015
Health-related quality of life of overweight and obese children.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 05-01-2005
Abstract: The negative effects of childhood overweight and obesity on quality of life (QOL) have been shown in clinical s les but not yet in population-based community s les. To determine relationships between weight and health-related QOL reported by parent-proxy and child self-report in a population s le of elementary school children. Cross-sectional data collected in 2000 within the Health of Young Victorians Study, a longitudinal cohort study commenced in 1997. In iduals were recruited via a random 2-stage s ling design from primary schools in Victoria, Australia. Of the 1943 children in the original cohort, 1569 (80.8%) were resurveyed 3 years later at a mean age of 10.4 years. Health-related QOL using the PedsQL 4.0 survey completed by both parent-proxy and by child self-report. Summary scores for children's total, physical, and psychosocial health and subscale scores for emotional, social, and school functioning were compared by weight category based on International Obesity Task Force cut points. Of 1456 participants, 1099 (75.5%) children were classified as not overweight 294 (20.2%) overweight and 63 (4.3%) obese. Parent-proxy and child self-reported PedsQL scores decreased with increasing child weight. The parent-proxy total PedsQL mean (SD) score for children who were not overweight was 83.1 (12.5) overweight, 80.0 (13.6) and obese, 75.0 (14.5) P<.001. The respective child self-reported total PedsQL mean (SD) scores were 80.5 (12.2), 79.3 (12.8), and 74.0 (14.2) P<.001. At the subscale level, child and parent-proxy reported scores were similar, showing decreases in physical and social functioning for obese children compared with children who were not overweight (all P<.001). Decreases in emotional and school functioning scores by weight category were not significant. The effects of child overweight and obesity on health-related QOL in this community-based s le were significant but smaller than in a clinical s le using the same measure.
Reimagining physical activity for children following the systemic disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2022
Fussy Eating Rescue, a mobile-web app for responsive feeding practises among parents of toddlers: protocol for a pilot randomised controlled feasibility trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S40814-023-01278-2
Abstract: Fussy eating is most often a developmentally typical behaviour, generally presenting during toddlerhood. However, up to half of parents of young children are concerned about fussy eating, and this concern may mediate the use of nonresponsive feeding practises, such as coercive or unstructured feeding and using food to reward eating. Despite the high prevalence of parental concern for fussy eating and the negative impacts nonresponsive feeding practises have on children’s health and diets, no previous digital intervention to improve the feeding practises of parents of toddlers concerned about fussy eating has been evaluated. This article describes the protocol of a randomised controlled feasibility pilot aiming to evaluate Fussy Eating Rescue, a purely web app based intervention for parents of toddlers. The primary aim is to investigate feasibility and acceptability secondary aims are to explore indications of intervention effect on parents’ feeding practises or children’s eating behaviours. Fussy Eating Rescue features include: (1) a Tracker, that allows parents to track repeated offers of food, (2) Topics, providing information on fussy eating, effective feeding strategies, and general nutrition, (3) Rescues, containing quick references to material supporting Topics contents, (4) Recipes, and (5) SMS notifications. Parents of toddlers (12–36 months old, n = 50) who have concerns about fussy eating will be recruited via Facebook. Parents will be randomised to an intervention group, which receives access to the app for 6 weeks, or to wait-listed control. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and 6 weeks after app use, using online questionnaires and app usage statistics. Primary outcomes include participant retention rate, intervention engagement, app usability, perceived ease in using the app, perceived usefulness of the app, and user satisfaction. Secondary outcome measures include parents’ feeding practises and children’s eating behaviours. Results will inform whether Fussy Eating Rescue is a feasible way to engage parents concerned for their toddler’s fussy eating behaviours. If feasible and acceptable to users, a larger trial will further examine the efficacy of the Fussy Eating app in improving parents’ feeding practises and children’s eating behaviours. Prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry on 15 July, 2021 (ACTRN12621000925842).
Early detection of emotional and behavioural problems in children with diabetes: the validity of the Child Health Questionnaire as a screening instrument.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-07-2003
DOI: 10.1046/J.1464-5491.2003.00981.X
Abstract: To assess the validity of the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) as a screening tool for detecting 'at risk' emotional and behavioural maladjustment in children with diabetes, using the Behaviour Assessment System for Children (BASC) as a gold standard measure. CHQ and BASC were administered to 103 parents of children with Type 1 diabetes, aged 7-12 years. Sub-scales of the two measures were compared using Pearson's bivariate correlations. CHQ sensitivity and specificity cut-points were optimized against the BASC borderline category using receiver operating characteristic curves. The BASC Externalizing Problems scale correlated strongly with CHQ Behaviour, Global Behaviour, Mental Health, Family Activities and Family Cohesion scales (r-values -0.68, -0.54, -0.51, -0.59, and -0.42, respectively). BASC Internalizing Problems scale correlated strongly with CHQ Behaviour, Mental Health and Family Cohesion scales (r-values -0.40, -0.43 and -0.45, respectively). Using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the CHQ Mental Health scale most effectively identified children classified as borderline on the BASC Internalizing Problems scale (sensitivity 87%, specificity 78%), while the CHQ Global Behaviour scale most effectively identified children classified as borderline on the BASC Externalizing Problems scale (sensitivity 73%, specificity 82%). Significant correlations were seen between the CHQ Global Behaviour and Mental Health scales and the BASC Externalizing and Internalizing scales, respectively. Sequential use of the CHQ, as a screening tool, followed by an established mental health measure such as the BASC, may help identify children with diabetes 'at risk' for chronic maladjustment and poor health outcomes.
Do the correlates of screen time and sedentary time differ in preschool children?
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-03-2017
Healthy eating, activity and obesity prevention: A qualitative study of parent and child perceptions in Australia
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 03-2005
Abstract: Preventative health strategies incorporating the views of target participants have improved the likelihood of success. This qualitative study aimed to elicit child and parent views regarding social and environmental barriers to healthy eating, physical activity and child obesity prevention programmes, acceptable foci, and appropriate modes of delivery. To obtain views across a range of social circumstances three demographically erse primary schools in Victoria, Australia were selected. Children in Grades 2 (aged 7-8 years) and 5 (aged 10-11 years) participated in focus groups of three to six children. Groups were semi-structured using photo-based activities to initiate discussion. Focus groups with established parent groups were also conducted. Comments were recorded, collated, and themes extracted using grounded theory. 119 children and 17 parents participated. Nine themes emerged: information and awareness, contradiction between knowledge and behaviour, lifestyle balance, local environment, barriers to a healthy lifestyle, contradictory messages, myths, roles of the school and family, and timing and content of prevention strategies for childhood obesity. In conclusion, awareness of food 'healthiness' was high however perceptions of the 'healthiness' of some sedentary activities that are otherwise of benefit (e.g. reading) were uncertain. The contradictions in messages children receive were reported to be a barrier to a healthy lifestyle. Parent recommendations regarding the timing and content of childhood obesity prevention strategies were consistent with quantitative research. Contradictions in the explicit and implicit messages children receive around diet and physical activity need to be prevented. Consistent promotion of healthy food and activity choices across settings is core to population prevention programmes for childhood obesity.
Strategies which aim to positively impact on weight, physical activity, diet and sedentary behaviours in children from zero to five years. A systematic review of the literature
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2007
Assessing Volume of Accelerometry Data for Reliability in Preschool Children
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 12-2012
Differences Between Mothers and Fathers of Young Children in Their Use of the Internet to Support Healthy Family Lifestyle Behaviors: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 25-07-2018
Abstract: n early life, both mothers and fathers are important influences on their children’s diet, active play, and obesity risk. Parents are increasingly relying on the internet and social media as a source of information on all aspects of parenting. However, little is known about the use of Web-based sources of information relevant to family lifestyle behaviors and, in particular, differences between mothers’ and fathers’ use and sociodemographic predictors. he objective of this study was to examine if mothers and fathers differ in their use of the internet for information on their own health and their child’s health, feeding, and playing and to examine sociodemographic predictors of the use of the internet for information on these topics. e conducted a secondary analysis on data collected from mothers (n=297) and fathers (n=207) participating in the extended Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT Extend) when their children were 36 months of age. The main outcome variables were the use of the internet for information gathering for parents’ own health and child health, feeding, and playing. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the sociodemographic predictors of outcomes. ompared with fathers (n=296), a higher proportion of mothers (n=198) used the internet for information on their own health (230, 78.5% vs 93, 46.5%), child health (226, 77.1% vs 84, 42.4%), child feeding (136, 46.3% vs 35, 17.5%), and child play (123, 42.1% vs 28, 14.0%) and intended to use Facebook to connect with other parents (200, 74.9% vs 43, 30.5%). Despite the high use of the internet to support family health behaviors, only 15.9% (47/296) of mothers reported consulting health practitioners for advice and help for their own or their child’s weight, diet, or physical activity. Sociodemographic predictors of internet use differed between mothers and fathers and explained only a small proportion of the variance in internet use to support healthy family lifestyle behaviors. ur findings support the use of the internet and Facebook as an important potential avenue for reaching mothers with information relevant to their own health, child health, child diet, and active play. However, further research is required to understand the best avenues for engaging fathers with information on healthy family lifestyle behaviors to support this important role in their child’s life. SRCTN Registry ISRCTN81847050 www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN81847050
The Chinese-born immigrant infant feeding and growth hypothesis
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-10-2016
Physical Activity Levels and Patterns of 19-Month-Old Children
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 09-2012
Parent beliefs about infant teething: A survey of Australian parents
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-10-1999
DOI: 10.1046/J.1440-1754.1999.355395.X
Abstract: Parents ascribe many infant symptoms to teething, despite little evidence to support such an attribution. We report current parental beliefs about teething and its management in a suburban Australian setting. A written questionnaire was given to all English-speaking parents consecutively attending infant hearing testing sessions in one Melbourne municipality between August and October 1997. Approximately 90% of Victorian infants attend these sessions. Parents of 92 infants (mean age 9.9 months) completed questionnaires (97% response rate). Only one believed that teething causes no problems. Most (70-85%) believed that teething causes fever, pain, irritability, sleep disturbance, mouthing/biting, drooling and red cheeks 35-55% reported nappy rash, 'sooking', ear pulling, feeding problems, runny nose, loose stools, and infections and a few (< 15%) reported smelly urine, constipation, colic or convulsions. Symptoms reported for a parent's own infant correlated almost perfectly with symptoms believed to be experienced by infants generally (r = 0.97, P < 0.001). Amount of infant distress when teething correlated with more 'difficult' infant temperament (r = 0.25, P < 0.05), and longer duration of symptoms per tooth correlated with parent distress (r = 0.26, P < 0. 05). Paracetamol (60%) and topical analgesia (55%) were commonly used remedies. Parents diagnose teething more by the presence of 'teething symptoms' (65%) than by palpable (43%) or visible (36%) tooth eruption. Teething is a distressing but ill-defined phenomenon reported by almost all parents of young children, and most use some form of medication to manage it. Most symptoms are minor and relate to discomfort rather than physical illness, but a substantial minority still ascribes potentially serious symptoms to teething.
Socioeconomic variation in diet and activity-related behaviours of Australian children and adolescents aged 2-16 years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.2047-6310.2012.00060.X
Abstract: Evidence for age-related variation in the relationship between obesity-related behaviours and socioeconomic position may assist in the targeting of dietary and physical activity interventions among children. To investigate the relationship between different indicators of socioeconomic position and obesity-related behaviours across childhood and adolescence. Data were from 4487 children aged 2 to 16 years participating in the cross-sectional 2007 Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Socioeconomic position was defined by the highest education of the primary or secondary carer and parental income. Activity was assessed using recall methods with physical activity also assessed using pedometers. Intake of energy-dense drinks and snack foods, fruits and vegetables was assessed using 2 × 24-h dietary recalls. A socioeconomic gradient was evident for each dietary measure (although in age-specific analyses, not for energy-dense snacks in older children), as well as television viewing, but not physical activity. Whether each behaviour was most strongly related to parental income or education of the primary or secondary carer was age and sex dependent. The socioeconomic gradient was strongest for television viewing time and consumption of fruit and energy-dense drinks. A strong socioeconomic gradient in eating behaviours and television viewing time was observed. Relationships for particular behaviours differed by age, sex and how socioeconomic position was defined. Socioeconomic indicators define different population groups and represent different components of socioeconomic position. These findings may provide insights into who should be targeted in preventive health efforts at different life stages.
Correlates of Preschool Children's Physical Activity
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2012.04.020
Abstract: Physical activity is important for children's health, and identifying factors associated with their physical activity is important for future interventions and public health programs. This study sought to identify multidimensional correlates of preschool children's physical activity. The social-ecological model (SEM) was used to identify constructs potentially associated with preschool children's physical activity. Data were collected from 1004 preschool children, aged 3-5 years, and parents in 2008-2009, and analyzed in 2010-2011. Physical activity was measured over 8 days using ActiGraph accelerometers. Parents completed a comprehensive survey. Generalized linear modeling was used to assess associations between potential correlates and percentage of time spent in physical activity. Correlates of physical activity were found across all the domains of the SEM and varied between boys and girls and week and weekend days. Age was the only consistent correlate, with children spending approximately 10% less time in physical activity for each advancing year of age. Some modifiable correlates that were related to more than one physical activity outcome were rules restricting rough games inside and usual daily sleep time for boys. For girls, a preference to play inside/draw/do crafts rather than be active, and child constraints, was associated with more than one of the physical activity outcomes. A novel finding in this study is the counterintuitive association between parental rules restricting rough games inside and boys' higher physical activity participation levels. Potential strategies for promoting children's physical activity should seek to influence children's preference for physical activity and parent rules. Gender-specific strategies also may be warranted.
A Health Promotion Intervention Can Affect Diet Quality in Early Childhood
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
Abstract: Initiatives to promote children's nutrition and prevent childhood obesity are vital. Dietary patterns are a useful way to characterize whole diets, though no previous early childhood health promotion trial to our knowledge has assessed intervention impact using this approach. This research aimed to assess the effect of a healthy eating and physical activity intervention on young children's dietary patterns. The Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial Program was a health promotion, cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 542 families. Child diets were assessed by multiple 24-h recalls postintervention at ~18 mo of age. An Obesity Protective Dietary Index (OPDI) was created and dietary patterns were also assessed by principal components analysis (PCA). These outcomes were used to compare intervention and control participants to test the effectiveness of the intervention. Children in the intervention arm scored higher (15.6 ± 5.9) than those in the control arm (14.5 ± 6.7) for the OPDI (scores out of 30, P = 0.01). Three dietary patterns were identified by PCA however, the scores did not substantially differ between the intervention and control arms. In conclusion, this paper presents novel results in both the evaluation of an early childhood health promotion intervention and the assessment of child dietary patterns. The results highlight the capacity for such an initiative to improve child diets and the need for further research in this area.
Does Sedentary Behavior Predict Motor Competence in Young Children?
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2023
Abstract: Background : Understanding how or whether sedentary behavior affects motor competence in young children is important considering that children spend a lot of time sedentary. The aim of this study was to examine whether sedentary behavior predicts motor competence in young children. Methods : A longitudinal study with a total of 372 children aged 3.5 years at baseline and 5 years at follow-up was conducted. Objectively measured activity patterns (i.e., using accelerometers) were conducted in a subs le with 188 children. Sedentary behavior was assessed both objectively and subjectively (parent-reported screen time). Locomotor and object control skill scores were determined using the Test of Gross Motor Development—Second Edition. A multivariable analysis was executed adjusting for potential confounders (such as age, sex, time spent in moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, monitor wear time, body mass index z scores, and maternal education). Results : Sedentary behavior at either time point was not significantly associated with either locomotor or object control skills after adjusting for potential confounders. Discussion : Our results did not support the assumption that sedentary behavior affects motor competence in young children. Regardless, given the lack of consistency in the evidence base, we recommend to parents, educators, and health professionals that sedentary activities should be kept within government recommendations due to potential negative effects on child development.
The infant feeding practices of Chinese immigrant mothers in Australia: A qualitative exploration
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.06.008
Abstract: The Australian Infant Feeding Guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding until about six months of age when solid foods should be gradually introduced. Evidence indicates that Chinese immigrant mothers in Australia are more likely to use infant formula in combination with breastfeeding and to introduce solids earlier than the general Australian population. This study aimed to explore Chinese immigrant mother's experiences of feeding their infant to gain an insight into the factors shaping their feeding decisions and perceptions of infant growth. Semi structured interviews were conducted with 36 Chinese immigrant mothers with children aged 0-12 months, living in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews were conducted either in Chinese, using an interpreter, or in English. All were audio recorded. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Eight themes were identified. Chinese immigrant mothers were supportive of exclusive breastfeeding, however breastfeeding problems and conflicting views about infant feeding and infant growth from grandparents reduced many mothers' confidence to breastfeed exclusively. For many new mothers, anxiety that exclusive breastfeeding provided insufficient nourishment led to the introduction of formula before six months of age. Most mothers delayed introducing solid food to five to six months to prevent development of allergic diseases and gastrointestinal problems. Chinese immigrant mothers obtained information and support related to infant feeding from a combination of health professionals, online resources, friends and grandparents. Chinese immigrant mothers in Australia need support to breastfeed exclusively. In particular maternal confidence to breastfeed exclusively needs to be increased. To achieve this, culturally sensitive guidance is needed and the contradictions in advice given by Chinese grandparents and health professionals on infant feeding practices and healthy infant growth need to be recognised and addressed.
Use of Electronic Games by Young Children and Fundamental Movement Skills?
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.2466/10.13.PMS.114.3.1023-1034
Abstract: This study investigated associations between pre-school children's time spent playing electronic games and their fundamental movement skills. In 2009, 53 children had physical activity (Actigraph accelerometer counts per minute), parent proxy-report of child's time in interactive and non-interactive electronic games (min./week), and movement skill (Test of Gross Motor Development–2) assessed. Hierarchical linear regression, adjusting for age (range = 3–6 years), sex (Step 1), and physical activity (cpm M = 687, SD = 175.42 Step 2), examined the relationship between time in (a) non-interactive and (b) interactive electronic games and locomotor and object control skill. More than half (59%, n = 31) of the children were female. Adjusted time in interactive game use was associated with object control but not locomotor skill. Adjusted time in non-interactive game use had no association with object control or locomotor skill. Greater time spent playing interactive electronic games is associated with higher object control skill proficiency in these young children. Longitudinal and experimental research is required to determine if playing these games improves object control skills or if children with greater object control skill proficiency prefer and play these games.
What helps children to move more at school recess and lunchtime? Mid-Intervention results from Transform-Us! Cluster-randomised controlled trial
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-10-2014
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2013-092466
Abstract: To investigate the interpersonal and physical environment mediators of the Transform-Us! mid-intervention effects on physical activity (PA) during recess and lunchtime. Transform-Us! is a clustered randomised school-based intervention with four groups: sedentary behaviour intervention (SB-I), PA intervention (PA-I), combined PA+SB-I and control group. All children in grade 3 from 20 participating primary schools in Melbourne, Australia were eligible to complete annual evaluation assessments. The outcomes were the proportion of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and light PA (LPA) during recess and lunchtime assessed by accelerometers. Potential mediators included: perceived social support from teachers perceived availability of line markings perceived accessibility of sports equipment and perceived school play environment. Generalised linear models were used and mediation effects were estimated by product-of-coefficients (a·b) approach. 268 children (8.2 years, 57% girls at baseline) provided complete data at both time points. A significant intervention effect on MVPA during recess in the SB-I and PA-I groups compared with the control group (proportional difference in MVPA time 38% (95% CI 21% to 57%) and 40% (95% CI 20% to 62%), respectively) was found. The perceived school play environment was significantly positively associated with MVPA at recess among girls. An increase in perceived social support from teachers suppressed the PA+SB-I effect on light PA during recess (a·b= -0.03, 95% CI -0.06 to -0.00). No significant mediating effects on PA during recess and lunchtime were observed. A positive perception of the school play environment was associated with higher MVPA during recess among girls. Future studies should conduct mediation analyses to explore underlying mechanisms of PA interventions.
Systematic review of lifestyle interventions to limit postpartum weight retention: implications for future opportunities to prevent maternal overweight and obesity following childbirth
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-06-2013
DOI: 10.1111/OBR.12053
Abstract: Postpartum weight retention can predict future weight gain and long-term obesity. Moreover, failure to lose weight gained during pregnancy can lead to increased body mass index for subsequent pregnancies, increasing the risk of adverse maternal and foetal pregnancy outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing postpartum weight retention. Seven electronic databases were searched for intervention studies and trials enrolling women with singleton pregnancies and published in English from January 1990 to October 2012. Studies were included when postpartum weight was a main outcome and when diet and/or exercise and/or weight monitoring were intervention components. No limitations were placed on age, body mass index or parity. Eleven studies were identified as eligible for inclusion in this review, of which 10 were randomized controlled trials. Seven studies were successful in decreasing postpartum weight retention, six of which included both dietary and physical activity components, incorporated via a range of methods and delivered by a variety of health practitioners. Few studies utilized modern technologies as alternatives to traditional face-to-face support and cost-effectiveness was not assessed in any of the studies. These results suggest that postpartum weight loss is achievable, which may form an important component of obesity prevention in mothers however, the optimal setting, delivery, intervention length and recruitment approach remains unclear.
Changes in body mass index and health related quality of life from childhood to adolescence
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.3109/17477166.2010.526226
Abstract: To determine longitudinal relationships between body mass index (BMI) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in an adolescent population s le. Design. Data collected in 2000 and 2005 within the Health of Young Victorians longitudinal cohort study. Originally a community s le of elementary school students in Victoria, Australia. Follow-up occurred in either secondary schools or in iduals homes. Cohort recruited in 1997 via a random s ling design from Victorian elementary schools. Originally comprising 1 943 children, 1 569 (80.8%) participated in 2000 (wave 2, 8-13 years) and 851 (54%) in 2005 (wave 3, 13-19 years). Main outcome measures. In both waves participants and their parents completed the PedsQL, a 23-item child HRQoL measure, and BMI z-scores and status (non-overweight, overweight or obese) were calculated from measured height and weight. Associations were tested cross-sectionally and longitudinally (linear regression, adjusted for baseline values) A total of 81.6% remained in the same BMI category, while 11.4% and 7.0% moved to higher and lower categories, respectively. Cross-sectional inverse associations between lower PedsQL and higher BMI categories were similar to those for elementary school children. Wave 2 BMI strongly predicted wave 3 BMI and wave 2 PedsQL strongly predicted wave 3 PedsQL. Only parent-reported Total PedsQL score predicted higher subsequent BMI, though this effect was small. Wave 2 BMI did not predict wave 3 PedsQL. This novel study confirmed previous cross-sectional associations, but did not provide convincing evidence that BMI is causally associated with falling HRQoL or vice versa across the transition from childhood to adolescence.
Australian parents' views on their 5-6-year-old children's food choices
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 03-2007
Abstract: The home food environment is central to the development of healthy eating behaviours, but associations between the home food environment and children's food choices are not yet fully understood. The aims of this study were to explore parents' views regarding factors that influence children's food choices and parents' decision-making regarding the food they provide to their children. In-depth one-on-one interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview schedule. Key concepts and themes were coded independently by two investigators. Participants include seventeen parents (16 mothers and 1 father) of children in their first year of formal schooling (aged 5-6 years). Five main themes emerged from the interviews: food marketing, food availability/food exposure, feeding strategies, modelling of eating and opportunities for food involvement. Parents believed that food marketing influenced their child's food preferences but differed in the ways they managed these influences. The food made available to children was also seen to influence what a child ate. Yet, although some parents believed it was the parents' role to determine what foods were made available to their child, others offered food on the basis of the child's tastes or preferences. The use of food as a reward was a feeding strategy employed by many parents. Family mealtimes were seen as an important opportunity for modelling of eating behaviour by parents. Peers were also seen to influence children's food preferences and eating behaviour. Finally, many parents believed that involving children in the preparation of food had a positive impact on children's food choices. Associations between the home food environment and children's food choices are complex and involve multiple mediators. Parents' views on the promoters and reinforcers of their decision-making regarding food and their child's food choices provide useful insights into these mediating factors. Increased understanding of these relationships is likely to enhance obesity prevention efforts.
The health and well-being of adolescents: a school-based population study of the self-report Child Health Questionnaire
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2001
DOI: 10.1016/S1054-139X(01)00211-7
Abstract: To evaluate a new generic measure of adolescent health status, the self-report version of the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), and provide population-based data. Furthermore, we aimed to examine the impact of common adolescent illness and health concerns on their health and well-being. A stratified, two-stage, random cluster s ling design was used to obtain a cross-sectional s le of subjects through schools. A written questionnaire included the 80-item 12-scale self-report CHQ and items measuring health concerns, illnesses/health conditions, and sociodemographics. A total of 2361 adolescents participated (response rate of 70%). Reliability was high: Tests of internal consistency and discriminant validity reported 90% of item-scale correlations >.4 all scales had Cronbach alpha coefficients >.7. Adolescents with illnesses/conditions or health concerns reported lower scores and larger differences for content-related scales, supporting content and construct validity. Statistically significant age and gender trends were observed for Mental Health, Self-Esteem, General Health, and Family Cohesion scales. Health status worsened as health concerns increased (X(2) linear trend, p =.00) with deterioration in health of 5-20% on all scales for emotional health concerns (40% of s le). The self-report CHQ is a reliable and seemingly valid measure of health and well-being for adolescent health research, although additional measures may be required where scales have high ceiling values. The significantly lower scores reported by adolescents with illness and/or health concerns lend support to the use of standardized health measures and longitudinal research to further examine the impact of adolescent comorbidities and their causal determinants.
Protocol for the Let’s Grow randomised controlled trial: examining efficacy, cost-effectiveness and scalability of a m-Health intervention for movement behaviours in toddlers
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-057521
Abstract: Despite being an important period for the development of movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep), few interventions commencing prior to preschool have been trialled. The primary aim of this trial is to assess the 12-month efficacy of the Let’s Grow mHealth intervention, designed to improve the composition of movement behaviours in children from 2 years of age. Let’s Grow is novel in considering composition of movement behaviours as the primary outcome, using non-linear dynamical approaches for intervention delivery, and incorporating planning for real-world implementation and scale-up from its inception. A randomised controlled trial will test the effects of the 12-month parental support mHealth intervention, Let’s Grow , compared with a control group that will receive usual care plus electronic newsletters on unrelated topics for cohort retention. Let’s Grow will be delivered via a purpose-designed mobile web application with linked SMS notifications. Intervention content includes general and movement-behaviour specific parenting advice and incorporates established behaviour change techniques. Intervention adherence will be monitored by app usage data. Data will be collected from participants using 24-hour monitoring of movement behaviours and parent report at baseline (T 0 ), mid-intervention (T 1 6 months post baseline), at intervention conclusion (T 2 12 months post baseline) and 1-year post intervention (T 3 2 years post baseline). The trial aims to recruit 1100 families from across Australia during 2021. In addition to assessment of efficacy, an economic evaluation and prospective scalability evaluation will be conducted. The study was approved by the Deakin University Human Ethics Committee (2020-077). Study findings will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentation at scientific and professional conferences, and via social and traditional media. ACTRN12620001280998 U1111-1252-0599.
Nutrition Knowledge: A Mediator between Socioeconomic Position and Diet Quality in Australian First-Time Mothers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JADA.2011.02.011
Abstract: Mothers are important role models for eating and are gatekeepers of food in the home. An understanding of maternal dietary behaviors could assist in the promotion of healthy eating for both mother and child. To investigate the independent contribution of socioeconomic position to nutrition knowledge and diet quality, and the contribution of nutrition knowledge to diet quality and to assess nutrition knowledge as a mediator between socioeconomic position and diet quality. Subjects included first-time Australian mothers residing in Melbourne, Australia (n=527). Cross-sectional data from the Melbourne InFANT (Infant Feeding, Activity, and Nutrition Trial) Program. A self-completed validated food-frequency questionnaire recorded dietary intake during the past year and a diet quality score was developed. Maternal education was used to classify socioeconomic position. Regression analyses were undertaken to assess associations between socioeconomic position and nutrition knowledge score socioeconomic position and diet score and nutrition knowledge score and diet score. Baron and Kenny's approach to mediation analyses was used to assess nutrition knowledge as a mediator. Overall maternal diet quality was poor, with average diet quality scores of 52.4, 52.9, and 57.1 out of a possible 80, in the low, medium, and high socioeconomic groups, respectively. Maternal diet quality was significantly better in mothers of high socioeconomic position as compared with the low socioeconomic position group (P<0.001). Overall nutrition knowledge was found to be quite high, with mean nutrition knowledge scores of 12.5, 12.7, and 13.7 out of a possible 17, in the low, medium, and high socioeconomic groups, respectively. Maternal nutrition knowledge was found to partly mediate the association between socioeconomic position and maternal diet quality. Poor maternal dietary quality may have implications for both mother and child, and socioeconomic position and nutrition knowledge are likely to be important. Effective interventions to support mothers to achieve healthy diets for themselves and their families are needed.
Prevalence and stability of active play, restricted movement and television viewing in infants
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 28-10-2014
GENERAL MEDICAL UNIT EXPERIENCE ON SUNDAY PHYSICIAN LED ONSITE DISCHARGE WARD ROUND
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1111/IMJ.7_13462
Associations between Child and Family Level Correlates and Behavioural Patterns in School-Aged Children
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-11-2021
Abstract: Identifying correlates of behavioural patterns are important to target population sub-groups at increased health risk. The aim was to investigate correlates of behavioural patterns comprising four behavioural domains in children. Data were from the HAPPY study when children were 6–8 years (n = 335) and 9–11 years (n = 339). Parents reported correlate and behavioural data (dietary intake, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep). Behavioural data were additionally captured using accelerometers. Latent profile analysis was used to derive patterns. Patterns were identified as healthy, unhealthy, and mixed at both time points. Multinomial logistic regression tested for associations. Girls were more likely to display healthy patterns at 6–8 years and display unhealthy and mixed patterns at 9–11 years than boys, compared to other patterns at the corresponding ages. Increased risk of displaying the unhealthy pattern with higher age was observed at both timepoints. At 9–11 years, higher parental working hours were associated with lower risk of displaying mixed patterns compared to the healthy pattern. Associations observed revealed girls and older children to be at risk for unhealthy patterns, warranting customisation of health efforts to these groups. The number of behaviours included when deriving patterns and the in idual behaviours that dominate each pattern appear to be drivers of the associations for child level, but not for family level, correlates.
Parental influences on preschoolers' TV viewing Time: Mediation analyses on australian and belgian data
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 09-2015
Abstract: Television viewing is highly prevalent in preschoolers (3–5 years). Because of the adverse health outcomes related to this behavior, it is important to investigate associations and mediators of young children’s television viewing time. This study investigated whether parental rules regarding television viewing time and parental concerns about screen viewing activities mediated the association between parents’ and preschoolers’ television viewing time. Mediation analyses were performed with the product-of-coefficient test on data derived from the Australian HAPPY study (n = 947) and the Belgian s le of the ToyBox-study (n = 1527). Parents reported their own and their child’s television viewing time, their rules regarding television viewing and concerns about their child’s screen viewing activities. Parents’ television viewing time was directly associated with preschoolers’ television viewing time and parental rule for television viewing time mediated this association in both s les (14.4% and 8.1% in the Australian and Belgian s les, respectively). This study is unique in examining the mediating pathway of parental television viewing and a rule limiting TV viewing time and whether this is consistent in different s les. Due to the consistent importance, both parents’ television viewing time and rules should be targeted in interventions to decrease preschoolers’ television viewing time.
The skeletal maturity of Australian children aged 10–13 years in 2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-02-2021
Examination of mid-intervention mediating effects on objectively assessed sedentary time among children in the Transform-Us! cluster-randomized controlled trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-05-2013
Abstract: The optimal targets and strategies for effectively reducing sedentary behavior among young people are unknown. Intervention research that explores changes in mediated effects as well as in outcome behaviors is needed to help inform more effective interventions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the mid-intervention mediating effects on children’s objectively assessed classroom and total weekday sedentary time in the Transform-Us! intervention. The results are based on 293 children, aged 7- to 9-years-old at baseline, from 20 schools in Melbourne, Australia. Each school was randomly allocated to one of four groups, which targeted reducing sedentary time in the school and family settings (SB n = 74), increasing or maintaining moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity in the school and family settings (PA n = 75), combined SB and PA (SB + PA n = 80), or the current practice control (C n = 64). Baseline and mid-intervention data (5–9 months) were collected in 2010 and analyzed in 2012. Classroom and total weekday sedentary time was objectively assessed using ActiGraph accelerometers. The hypothesized mediators including, child enjoyment, parent and teacher outcome expectancies, and child perceived access to standing opportunities in the classroom environment, were assessed by questionnaire. The SB + PA group spent 13.3 min/day less in weekday sedentary time at mid-intervention compared to the control group. At mid-intervention, children in the SB group had higher enjoyment of standing in class (0.9 units 5-unit scale) and all intervention groups had more positive perceptions of access to standing opportunities in the classroom environment (0.3-0.4 units 3-unit scale), compared to the control group. However, none of the hypothesized mediator variables had an effect on sedentary time thus, no mediating effects were observed. While beneficial intervention effects were observed on some hypothesized mediating variables and total weekday sedentary time at mid-intervention, no significant mediating effects were found. Given the dearth of existing information, future intervention research is needed that explores mediated effects. More work is also needed on the development of reliable mediator measures that are sensitive to change overtime. ACTRN12609000715279 ISRCTN83725066
Health-related quality of life and metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes: A prospective cohort study
Publisher: American Diabetes Association
Date: 02-2004
Abstract: OBJECTIVE—To assess change in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children with diabetes over 2 years and determine its relationship to change in metabolic control. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In 1998, parents of children aged 5–18 years attending a tertiary diabetes clinic reported their child’s HRQOL using the Child Health Questionnaire PF-50. Those aged 12–18 years also self-reported their HRQOL using the analogous Child Health Questionnaire CF-80. HbA1c levels were recorded. In 2000, identical measures were collected for those who were aged ≤18 years and still attending the clinic. RESULTS—Of 117 eligible subjects, 83 (71%) participated. Parents reported no significant difference in children’s HRQOL at baseline and follow-up. However, adolescents reported significant improvements on the Family Activities (P & 0.001), Bodily Pain (P = 0.04), and General Health Perceptions (P = 0.001) scales and worsening on the Behavior (P = 0.04) scale. HbA1c at baseline and follow-up were strongly correlated (r = 0.57). HbA1c increased significantly (mean 7.8% in 1998 vs. 8.5% in 2000 P & 0.001), with lower baseline HbA1c strongly predicting an increase in HbA1c over the 2 years (r2 = 0.25, P & 0.001). Lower parent-reported Physical Summary and adolescent-reported Physical Functioning scores at baseline also predicted increasing HbA1c. Poorer parent-reported Psychosocial Summary scores were related to higher HbA1c at both times but did not predict change in HbA1c. CONCLUSIONS—Changes in parent and adolescent reports of HRQOL differ. Better physical functioning may protect against deteriorating HbA1c, at least in the medium term. While the HRQOL of children with diabetes does not appear to deteriorate over time, we should not be complacent, as it is consistently poorer than that of their healthy peers.
Adalimumab (TNFαInhibitor) Therapy Exacerbates IgA Glomerulonephritis Acute Renal Injury and Induces Lupus Autoantibodies in a Psoriasis Patient
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1155/2013/812781
Abstract: Adalimumab (Humira) is a tumour necrosis factor α (TNF α ) inhibitor that is approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (Sullivan and Preda (2009), Klinkhoff (2004), and Medicare Australia). Use of TNF α inhibitors is associated with the induction of autoimmunity (systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, and sarcoidosis or sarcoid-like granulomas) (Ramos-Casals et al. (2010)). We report a patient with extensive psoriasis presenting with renal failure and seropositive lupus markers without classical lupus nephritis after 18 months treatment with adalimumab. He has renal biopsy proven IgA nephritis instead. Renal biopsy is the key diagnostic tool in patients presenting with adalimumab induced nephritis and renal failure. He made a remarkable recovery after adalimumab cessation and steroid treatment. To our knowledge, this is a unique case of a psoriasis patient presenting with seropositive lupus markers without classical lupus nephritis renal failure and had renal biopsy proven IgA glomerulonephritis after receiving adalimumab.
Parental use of restrictive feeding practices and child BMI z-score. A 3-year prospective cohort study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2010.04.006
Abstract: This study examines associations between parental feeding restriction at baseline and child body mass index (BMI) z-score at 3-year follow-up. Parents of 204 5-6-year-old and 188 10-12-year-old children completed the Child Feeding Questionnaire at baseline (2002/3). In 2002/3 and 2005/6, children's BMI z-score was calculated from measured height and weight. Analyses were stratified by age-group. The association of follow-up zBMI and baseline feeding restriction score was explored using (i) linear regression with adjustment for baseline zBMI and (ii) with further adjustments for baseline maternal BMI, maternal education level and child sex. Baseline restriction was associated with follow-up zBMI at 3 years in 5-6-year-old children and was largely unchanged when adjusting for child sex, maternal BMI and education. Restriction was not associated with follow-up zBMI in 10-12-year-old children. This longitudinal study adds important depth to our understanding of associations between restrictive feeding and change in zBMI, suggesting that restriction of energy-dense foods and drinks may be protective of unhealthy weight gain in younger children but may have no effect among older children. These findings support a reconsideration of the notion that restriction is likely to result in increased child weight.
Results from Australia's 2016 report card on physical activity for children and youth
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 11-2016
Abstract: Two years on from the inaugural Active Healthy Kids Australia (AHKA) Physical Activity Report Card, there has been little to no change with the majority of Australian children still insufficiently active. The 2016 AHKA Report Card was developed using the best available national- and state-based physical activity data, which were evaluated by the AHKA Research Working Group using predetermined weighting criteria and benchmarks to assign letter grades to the 12 Report Card indicators. In comparison with 2014, Overall Physical Activity Levels was again assigned a D - with Organized Sport and Physical Activity Participation increasing to a B (was B -) and Active Transport declining to a C - (was C ). The settings and sources of influence again performed well ( A - to a C +), however Government Strategies and Investments saw a decline ( C + to a D ). The traits associated with physical activity were also graded poorly ( C - to a D ). Australian youth are insufficiently active and engage in high levels of screen-based sedentary behaviors. While a range of support structures exist, Australia lacks an overarching National Physical Activity Plan that would unify the country and encourage the cultural shift needed to face the inactivity crisis head on.
Associations between the physical activity levels of fathers and their children at 20 months, 3.5 and five years of age
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-07-2017
Feasibility and Efficacy of a Parent-Focused, Text Message–Delivered Intervention to Reduce Sedentary Behavior in 2- to 4-Year-Old Children (Mini Movers): Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 09-02-2018
DOI: 10.2196/MHEALTH.8573
Obesity prevention interventions for early childhood: An updated systematic review of the literature
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 16-09-2011
How Do School-Day Activity Patterns Differ with Age and Gender across Adolescence?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.JADOHEALTH.2008.05.003
Abstract: A knowledge of how young people use their time could be instrumental in informing health interventions, modeling consumer behaviors, and planning service delivery. The aim of the present study was to describe age- and gender-related patterns in the self-reported use of time on school days in a large s le of Australian children and adolescents aged between 10 and 18 years. A single, detailed use-of-time diary for a school day was collected from 6024 Australians aged 10-18 from several state and regional surveys conducted in the states of South Australia (SA) and Victoria between 2001 and 2006. Time-use profiles were analyzed for a range of active and sedentary state behaviors. Boys reported higher physical activity levels (PALs), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sports than girls. There were no differences in free play, and girls used more active transport. All activity-related variables decreased with age, except active transport, which peaked at 14-15 years. Boys exhibited higher levels of screen time, whereas girls had higher levels of passive transport. Screen time and its components (television, videogames, and computer use) peaked in the peripubertal years. Age- and gender-related patterns of time use vary greatly within adolescence. This may reflect a mix of biological and social factors.
A mobile technology intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour in 2- to 4-year-old children (Mini Movers): Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-03-2017
Setting them up for lifetime activity: Play competence perceptions and physical activity in young children
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2017.03.003
Abstract: Possessing positive physical perceived competence is important for physical activity in older children. Young children are primarily physically active through play-based behaviour rather than through organised sports and activities, so understanding how play perceptions might influence physical activity behaviour is important. The study purpose was to assess if perceived active play competence is associated with young children's physical activity. Cross sectional study. This paper uses two different s les drawn from the same Australian city, both collected in 2013. The first s le included 152 children (49% boys) aged 4-5 years (M=4.7, SD=0.47), the second s le included 78 children (55% boys) aged 5-8 years (M=6.6, SD=0.93). The Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence was used to assess children's perceived competence in six skill-related play activities. Moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) was assessed for 8 consecutive days via accelerometers. A general linear model with the mean minutes in MVPA per day as the outcome, perceived play competence as the independent variable and adjusting for relevant confounders was performed in each s le. Perceived active play competence was not related to MVPA min/day (B=0.44, p=0.323) in the younger s le, but was in the older s le (B=1.53, p=0.026), explaining 24% of adjusted variance. Positive findings in the older s le show school-aged children need exposure to play based activities in order to develop the positive self-perception needed to engage in MVPA every day.
Feasibility and Efficacy of�a Parent-Focused, Text Message�Delivered Intervention to�Reduce Sedentary Behavior in 2- to 4-Year-Old Children (Mini Movers): Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-07-2017
Prevalence of sedentary behavior in children under 2years: A systematic review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2015.07.019
Abstract: Sedentary behavior has negative health outcomes, evident even in young children. Identifying the prevalence of sedentary behavior in children <2years is important for determining the necessity for intervention strategies. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the prevalence of sedentary behavior in children <2years. Medline, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, and Education Research Complete electronic databases were searched, as were reference lists of included articles and the authors' own collections. Inclusion criteria were: published in a peer-reviewed English language journal mean age of children <2years and a reported measure of the prevalence of sedentary behavior. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies used parent-reported screen time as the sedentary behavior measure only one study reported time spent restrained (i.e., kept inactive) and no studies reported objectively assessed sedentary time. Estimates of young children's screen time ranged from 36.6 to 330.9min/day. The proportion of children meeting the zero screen time recommendation ranged from 2.3% to 83.0%. In conclusion, very little is known about sedentary behaviors other than screen time in this age group. Although highly variable, findings suggest that children are already engaging in high levels of screen time by age 2 and the majority exceed current recommendations.
Mothers' perceptions of Melbourne InFANT Program: Informing future practice
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 13-03-2016
Abstract: Intervention programs to prevent childhood obesity are more likely to be successful when mothers are involved and engaged. Yet programs that involve mothers do not often employ process evaluation to identify aspects of the intervention that participants enjoyed or viewed as useful. The aims of this study were to describe how participants of the Melbourne InFANT Program-an early childhood obesity prevention intervention-engaged in the program and perceived its usefulness. Process evaluation data were collected at multiple time points during and after the intervention, using mixed methods drawing upon both quantitative and qualitative data. Results from short surveys (n = 271) and interview transcripts (n = 26) revealed that the Melbourne InFANT Program was perceived as useful and relevant by most (82-93%) participants. The formats through which the knowledge and skills were delivered were considered concise and effective, and aspects considered particularly useful included group sessions and advice on practical strategies to minimize stress around mealtimes. Findings from this study are important to inform future practice and the development of interventions which are well received by participants.
Maternal correlates of young children's physical activity across periods of the day.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2016.06.014
Abstract: Associations between maternal correlates and young children's physical activity levels across the whole day and the segmented day were examined. Cross-sectional study METHODS: Participants were 136 mothers and their 1-3 year old children recruited between July 2013 and March 2014. Mothers reported time spent providing physical activity opportunities for their child, co-participating in and modelling physical activity and sedentary behaviours during the morning, afternoon and evening. Participants wore ActiGraph GT3X (mothers) and GT3X+ (children) accelerometers concurrently for seven consecutive days and the time spent in light- (LPA), moderate- to vigorous- (MVPA) and total (LMVPA) physical activity were assessed. Two-level (family recruitment group) multivariate models examined associations between maternal correlates (including maternal objectively-assessed sedentary time [ST] and physical activity) and children's physical activity. Maternal self-reported co-participation in sedentary behaviour and provision of child opportunities for physical activity were associated with children's physical activity associations varied by period and physical activity intensity. During the morning period, mothers' objectively assessed ST was negatively associated with children's MVPA and LMVPA while her LPA was positively associated with children's LPA, MVPA and LMVPA. Mothers' MVPA was negatively associated with children's LPA and LMVPA during the evening period. Maternal correlates of young children's physical activity may be period- and intensity-specific. Programmes promoting physical activity for families may need to consider incorporating strategies to reduce mother-child co-participation in sedentary behaviour, increase mothers' provision of opportunities to be active and increase mothers' own LPA over ST during certain periods of the day.
Dietary associations of fathers and their children between the ages of 20 months and 5 years
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 18-04-2016
DOI: 10.1017/S136898001600077X
Abstract: To examine associations between dietary intakes of fathers and their children at child age 20 months, 3·5 years and 5 years, and to determine if fathers’ intake predicts change in children’s intake between 20 months and 3·5 and 5 years of age. The diets of fathers and their first-born children participating in the longitudinal Melbourne Infant Feeding Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program were assessed using FFQ and three 24 h recalls, respectively. Sixty-two pre-existing first-time parent groups were selected from fourteen local government areas within a 60 km radius of Deakin University Burwood, Victoria, Australia. Fathers and their first-born children at 20 months ( n 317), 3·5 years ( n 214) and 5 years of age ( n 208). Positive associations were found between fathers’ and children’s intakes of fruit and sweet snacks at 20 months ( P =0·001) and 5 years of age ( P =0·012). Fathers’ intake at child age 20 months was associated with change in children’s intake for fruit, sweet snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages between child age 20 months and 3·5 years, and for sweet snacks and sugar-sweetened beverages between child age 20 months and 5 years (all P ·05). After adjustment for maternal intake, fathers’ intake of sweet snacks remained a predictor of change in children’s sweet snack intake between 20 months and 3·5 years of age ( P =0·03). Associations between the dietary intakes of fathers and their children commence at a young age and continue through early childhood. Fathers should be included in future interventions aimed at improving children’s diets.
The Child Health Questionnaire in children with diabetes: cross-sectional survey of parent and adolescent-reported functional health status.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2000
DOI: 10.1046/J.1464-5491.2000.00360.X
Abstract: To study parent and adolescent-reported physical, psychosocial and family wellbeing in children aged 5-18 years with diabetes. 5-18-year-olds attending a diabetes clinic at a tertiary children's hospital. (1) Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) PF-50, a functional heath status measure for children aged 5-18 years (parents) (2) CHQ CF-80, a similar self-report measure (adolescents aged 12-18 years) (3) 11 study-designed questions related to diabetes-specific concerns (parents) (4) global ratings of physical and psychosocial health (clinicians) (5) HbA1c level (all subjects). CHQ data were compared with Australian normative data collected six months earlier. Reports were obtained from 128 parents and 71 adolescents (90 and 92% response). The CHQ demonstrated good psychometric properties in this s le of children with diabetes. Parents reported children with diabetes to have generally poorer health than children in the normative s le, especially on psychosocial and parent/family scales. Psychosocial health was markedly lower in 5-11-year-olds with HbA1c > 8.8%, but not in 12-18-year-olds. Presence of diabetes-related symptoms and concerns correlated with lower physical and psychosocial functioning. Parents and clinicians concurred in their ratings of health for 12-18-year-olds but not 5-11-year-olds. Adolescents reported their own health similarly to adolescents in the normative s le. Parents report children aged 5-18 years with diabetes to have poorer health than children in the normative s le across all domains. Clinicians may underrate the impact of diabetes for younger children, with possible therapeutic implications. In providing an overall description of health, instruments like the CHQ may add another dimension to the care of children with diabetes and can feasibly be used within clinical settings.
Children's television viewing and objectively measured physical activity: Associations with family circumstance
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2006
Body mass index and parent-reported self-esteem in elementary school children: Evidence for a causal relationship
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-08-2004
Preschoolers’ Physical Activity, Screen Time, and Compliance with Recommendations
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2012
How to Support Child Healthcare Nurses in Sweden to Promote Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors from the Start of Life
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-08-2021
Abstract: Child healthcare (CHC) nurses have a key role in promoting and supporting healthy lifestyle behaviors from a young age. Thus, this study aims to investigate the perspectives of CHC nurses regarding discussing food introduction, physical activity/active play, and screen time with parents explore facilitators and barriers influencing the discussion of healthy lifestyle behaviors with parents and explore the perspectives of CHC nurses regarding a complementary program to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors from the start of life. A total of fifteen nurses participated in semi-structured interviews, which were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis. There were four themes that were generated: parental needs facilitators and barriers parental groups and future working methods. This study found that CHC nurses have seen an increase in the need for support among today’s parents. Time, the need to tailor information, and confidence to address sensitive topics were perceived as the largest barriers during daily work for the nurses. Furthermore, large variations in parental groups were found. Finally, the CHC nurses displayed a willingness and openness to change and develop current working methods using digital solutions. These solutions could possibly ease the workload and at the same time, support parents to create healthy lifestyle behaviors from the start of their child’s life.
Associations between physical activity, television viewing and postnatal depressive symptoms amongst healthy primiparous mothers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
Comorbidities of overweight/obesity experienced in adolescence: longitudinal study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 15-06-2010
Abstract: Adolescent obesity is linked to metabolic and cardiovascular risk, but its associations with adolescents' experienced health and morbidity are less clear. Morbidities experienced by overweight/obese adolescents and associations between morbidities and timing of overweight/obesity were examined. Data were from the Health of Young Victorians Study (HOYVS 1997, 2000, 2005), a school-based longitudinal study. Outcomes were blood pressure, health status (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL), global health), mental health (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire), psychological distress (Kessler-10), physical symptoms, sleep, asthma, dieting, and healthcare needs and visits. Regression methods assessed associations with body mass index status and timing of overweight/obesity. Of the 923 adolescents (20.2% overweight, 6.1% obese), 63.5% were classified as "never" overweight/obese, 8.5% as "childhood only", 7.3% as "adolescence only" and 20.8% as "persistent". Compared to non-overweight, current obesity was associated with lower PedsQL physical summary scores (mean -6.58, 95% CI -9.52 to -3.63) and good/fair oor global health (OR 3.52, 95% CI 1.95 to 6.36), hypertension (systolic 8.86, 95% CI 4.70 to 16.71 diastolic 5.29, 95% CI 2.74 to 10.20) and dieting (OR 5.79, 95% CI 3.28 to 10.23), with intermediate associations for overweight. Associations with psychosocial morbidity were weaker and inconsistent and there were few associations with health symptoms and problems. Only dieting (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.36 to 3.89) was associated with resolved childhood overweight/obesity. Despite poorer overall health, overweight/obese adolescents were not more likely to report specific problems that might prompt health intervention. Morbidity was mainly associated with concurrent, rather than earlier, overweight/obesity.
Early childhood physical activity, sedentary behaviors and psychosocial well-being: A systematic review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2014.02.007
Abstract: Little is known about how health behaviors such as physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SB) may be associated with psychosocial well-being during the crucial early childhood period. The aim of this study was to undertake a systematic review of associations between PA, SB and psychosocial well-being during early childhood. In February 2013, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and Embase electronic databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were: 1. peer-reviewed publication since 1980 in English 2. children aged birth-5 years 3. PA or SB measured during early childhood 4. an indicator of child psychosocial well-being and 5. association between PA/SB and psychosocial well-being reported. Studies could be observational or interventions. Data were extracted by one author and entered into a standardized form in February and March 2013. 19 studies were identified: four examined PA, 13 examined SB and two examined PA and SB. No interventions met the inclusion criteria all included studies were observational. In total, 21 indicators of psychosocial well-being were examined, 13 only once with the remaining eight reported in more than one study. Some dose-response evidence was identified suggesting that PA is positively, and SB inversely, associated with psychosocial well-being. Too few studies exist to draw conclusions regarding associations. Future high-quality cohort and intervention studies are warranted particularly investigating dose-response associations.
Does height influence progression through primary school grades?
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2000
DOI: 10.1136/ADC.82.4.297
Abstract: To examine the relation between a child's height and grade progression in primary school. Height was measured in a representative cross sectional s le of children from 24 primary schools in Victoria in late 1997. Height measurements were transformed to standardised scores using Cole's "LMS" method to allow for comparison across ages and genders. Children within each grade were ided into three equal groups based on age (youngest third, middle third, oldest third), again to allow for cross age comparison. A total of 2848 children aged 5-12 years (51% male) were included, with approximately 400 children in each of the seven grades from preparatory to grade 6. Analysis of variance showed a significant relation overall between age and height, with a sequential decrease in height from the youngest to the oldest third. When genders were considered separately, the relation remained significant for boys but not for girls. A total of 133 children (66% male) repeated a grade in primary school. When this group of grade repeaters was removed from the s le, analysis of variance showed no significant relation between standardised height score and age tertile for boys. Although birth weight category and maternal education were independent predictors of height scores overall, they did not appear to influence decisions to retain pupils in grades. Older boys within grades, notably those who have repeated a grade, are shorter than their peers. Decisions to retain pupils, particularly boys who are experiencing school difficulties, may be influenced by their height.
How is active transport associated with children's and adolescents' physical activity over time?
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2011
2022 Active Healthy Kids Australia report card on physical activity for children and young people
Publisher: Deakin University
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.21153/AHKA2022
Maternal self-efficacy regarding children's eating and sedentary behaviours in the early years: Associations with children's food intake and sedentary behaviours
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.3109/17477161003777425
Abstract: This cross-sectional study aimed to describe parents' views regarding self-efficacy to influence children's eating and sedentary behaviours at two time points in early childhood, and to examine associations between these views and children's eating and sedentary behaviours. Mothers of 1-year (n=60) and 5-year-old children (n=80) were recruited through Maternal and Child Health Centres and kindergartens in Victoria, Australia. Mothers reported children's dietary intake, television viewing and perceptions of their self-efficacy regarding children's eating and sedentary behaviours. Overall, 5-year-old children consumed significantly more energy-dense food and drink and spent significantly more time viewing TV/DVD and video. Mothers of 1-year-olds were significantly more likely to report they felt confident to limit child's consumption of non-core foods/drinks, and to limit screen access (p<0.001). Measures of maternal self-efficacy were directly associated with 5-year-old children's water (p<0.05), and fruit and vegetable consumption (p<0.005), and with 1-year-old children's vegetable consumption (p<0.05), and were inversely associated with cordial and cake consumption (p<0.05). Maternal self-efficacy to limit viewing time was inversely associated with screen-time exposure in both age groups (p<0.01). This study suggests that mother's self-efficacy regarding limiting non-core foods/drinks and limiting screen-time exposures may decline during the first few years of a child's life. Higher maternal self-efficacy was associated with children having more obesity protective eating and sedentary behaviours at both ages. Interventions to support the development of healthy lifestyle behaviours may be most effective if they target mothers' self-efficacy in these domains early in their child's life.
A thematic cluster analysis of parents' online discussions about fussy eating
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-02-2022
DOI: 10.1111/MCN.13316
Abstract: Food fussiness is associated with non‐responsive parent feeding practices, such as persuasive and instrumental feeding. Although most children described as ‘fussy eaters’ are likely exhibiting developmentally typical behaviours, up to half of the parents of children 2–5 years old express concerns. Concern for fussy eating may mediate the use of non‐responsive feeding practices and so must be addressed in parent feeding interventions. Therefore, it is critical to better understand parents' concerns and how they may relate to feeding practices. This study aimed to explore how parents' feeding practices and the social cognitive factors that may drive them clustered based on parents' concern for fussy eating. Data were collected from parent discussions of fussy eating on a Reddit forum (80,366 posts). Latent Dirichlet allocation was used to identify discussions of fussy eating. Relevant posts (1542) made by users who identified as a parent of a fussy eater ( n = 630) underwent qualitative coding and thematic analysis. Five clusters of parents were identified, ranging in size from 53 to 189 users. These were primarily characterised by parents' degree of concern and feeding practices: (1) High concern, nonresponsive (2) Concerned, nonresponsive (3) Low concern, responsive (4) Low concern, mixed strategies (5) Low concern, indulgent. Parents who used responsive practices tended to be less concerned for fussy eating, have greater trust in their child's ability to self‐regulate hunger, have longer‐term feeding goals, and exhibit greater ability for personal self‐regulation. Future research should further examine how these constructs may be leveraged in parent feeding interventions.
Are children and adolescents less active if parents restrict their physical activity and active transport due to perceived risk?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.02.010
Abstract: The study examined parental restriction of children's active transport and physical activity outside school hours due to safety concerns, and how this restriction was associated with perceived risk and with youth physical activity levels. We used a cross-sectional design with data from children aged 10-11 years (n=170) and adolescents aged 15-17 years (n=270) who participated in the five-year follow-up of the Children Living in Active Neighbourhoods longitudinal study in Melbourne, Australia. Walking/cycling to local destinations was survey-reported. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was recorded during non-school hours using accelerometers. Using surveys, parents reported perceived risk of their children being harmed in their neighbourhood, and restrictions they placed on their children's physical activity. Linear regression analyses examined how perceived risk, constrained behaviour, and physical activity were related. We found that perceived risk did not vary by age-group and was positively associated with constrained behaviour among adolescents but not children. Children were subject to higher levels of constrained behaviour than adolescents. Constrained behaviour was negatively associated with active transport among younger boys and among girls in both age-groups. Furthermore, it was negatively associated with younger boys' MVPA on weekends and with adolescent girls' MVPA during evenings. There were no associations between constrained behaviour and active transport or MVPA among adolescent boys. The findings demonstrate that constrained behaviour exhibited by parents may result in lower levels of active transport and of MVPA outside school hours. In particular, this was true for children and adolescent girls. Social interventions to improve perceived safety and physical interventions involving redesign of the built environment to improve actual safety may help to ease parental restriction of their children's active transport and physical activity in their neighbourhood.
Key Messages in an Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Intervention: Are They Recalled and Do They Impact Children’s Behaviour?
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-05-2019
Abstract: Knowledge of the impact of health messages as an intervention strategy is sparse. The aim of this study was to explore recall and use of health behaviour messages among mothers, and whether recall is associated with child health behaviours. Intervention group data from the 15 months Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) were used (n = 127, children 4 months at commencement). Mothers recalled (unprompted then prompted) at 2 and 3.5 years post-intervention six key messages used in the program, and reported whether they had used them. Children’s food intake was measured by three days of 24-h recall physical activity by accelerometers and television viewing by parent report. Unprompted recall ranged between 1–56% across messages and follow-up points, and 37–90% for prompted recall. The most commonly recalled messages “tap into water”, “parents provide, kids decide” and “color every meal with fruit and veg” were also most commonly used. There were few associations between recall and children’s health behaviours. Given the association between recall and reported use, it is important to plan messages so they resonate well with the target group and its needs. Messages should be used as one of multiple strategies within health promotion programs.
Children's physical activity and screen time: Qualitative comparison of views of parents of infants and preschool children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
The role of parents in preventing child overweight and obesity: An ecological approach
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 09-09-2010
Early childhood predictors of toddlers' physical activity: Longitudinal findings from the Melbourne InFANT Program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Breastfeeding mothers consume more vegetables and a greater variety of fruits and vegetables than non-breastfeeding peers: The influence of socioeconomic position
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2012
Prospective associations with physiological, psychosocial and educational outcomes of meeting Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-03-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-020-00935-6
Abstract: Several countries have released movement guidelines for children under 5 that incorporate guidelines for sleep, physical activity and sedentary behavior. This study examines prospective associations of preschool children’s compliance with the 24-Hour Australian movement guidelines (sleep, physical activity, screen time) and physiological, psychosocial and educational outcomes during primary school. Data were from the Healthy Active Preschool and Primary Years Study (Melbourne, Australia n = 471 3–5 years 2008/9). Follow-ups occurred at 3 (2011/12 6–8 years), 6 (2014/15 9–11 years) and 7 (2016 10–12 years) years post baseline. Multiple regression models assessed associations between compliance with guidelines at baseline and later outcomes. Children were 4.6 years at baseline (53% boys 62% high socio-economic families). Most children met physical activity (89%) and sleep (93%) guidelines 23% met screen-time guidelines and 20% met all guidelines at baseline. Meeting all of the three guidelines was associated with lower BMI z-scores at 9–11 years of age (b = − 0.26, 95%CI -0.47, − 0.05). Meeting physical activity guidelines was associated with higher total body bone mineral density (b = 0.64, 95%CI 0.15, 1.13), and total body bone mineral content (b = 183.19, 95%CI 69.92, 296.46) at 10–12 years of age. Meeting sleep guidelines was associated with better reading (b = 37.60, 95%CI 6.74, 68.46), spelling (b = 34.95, 95%CI 6.65, 63.25), numeracy (b = 39.09, 95%CI 11.75, 66.44), language (b = 44.31, 95%CI 11.77, 76.85) and writing (b = 25.93, 95%CI 0.30, 51.57) at 8–9 years of age. No associations were evident for compliance with screen-time guidelines or for psychosocial outcomes. Compliance with different movement behavior guidelines was associated with different outcomes. Strategies to support children in meeting all of the guidelines are warranted to maximize health and educational outcomes. Future research investigating dose-response associations, and potential mechanisms, is necessary.
How to Change Young Children’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior: Mechanisms of Behavior Change in the INFANT Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-06-2021
Abstract: Background: Understanding the mechanisms (mediators) of behavior change is crucial to designing more effective interventions. However, this is rarely reported. This paper investigates the mechanisms that explain the lack of intervention effect on physical activity and the significant effect on television viewing time from an early childhood trial. Methods: Secondary analyses were undertaken of data from a cluster randomized controlled trial. The Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (INFANT) was a 15-month group program promoting obesity-protective behaviors from the age of 4 months. Outcomes relevant to the current study were child physical activity (accelerometer), television viewing time (maternal report) and 12 potential mediator scales (maternal report). Linear regression models used the product of coefficients method with a joint significance test. Results: Complete data were from 398 mother-child dyads. Despite weak evidence of an intervention effect on the mother’s physical activity knowledge and optimism, there was no effect on children’s physical activity, and no clear mechanisms were identified. An intervention effect was observed for the mothers’ television knowledge (unstandardized regression coefficient for a path (a) = 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI95) = 0.22, 0.45), with weak evidence for maternal efficacy (a = 0.11, CI95 = −0.02, 0.24) and the use of television (a = −0.10, CI95 = −0.22, 0.01). The intervention impact on television knowledge explained 75% of the difference between the intervention and control groups in children’s television viewing. Conclusions: In the very early childhood period, as mothers are commencing their parenting journey, improving their behavioral knowledge appears to be the biggest contributor to reducing child television viewing, constituting a relatively simple strategy that could be implemented across clinical and public health settings. In contrast, it remains unclear what mechanisms may increase physical activity levels in this age group.
Informing active play and screen time Behaviour change interventions for low socioeconomic position mothers of young children: What do mothers want?
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1155/2016/2139782
Abstract: Introduction . This study investigated views of mothers from disadvantaged urban and regional areas (i.e., beyond major capital cities) as potential end users of child active play and screen time behaviour change interventions, with a focus on text messaging and web-based delivery platforms. Methods . Thirty-two mothers (22 urban 10 regional) were interviewed. Purpose-designed questions covered topics regarding mothers’ preferences for accessing and receiving information related to parenting and child active play and screen time. Data from transcribed interviews were analysed to identify responses and key themes. Results . Mothers reported frequently accessing parenting- and child-related information online. Regional mothers reported seeking information by talking with other people less frequently than urban mothers and seemed to have a stronger preference for receiving information online. There were few differences between responses from low and high educated mothers. The majority of mothers reported that they would be happy to receive text messages containing information about active play and screen time and that they would find a dedicated website with this information useful. Conclusions . Mothers in this study held favourable views on the potential of receiving information via new communication technologies. Future interventions targeting socioeconomically disadvantaged mothers may benefit from delivering intervention messages via these technologies.
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Royal Children's Hospital/Murdoch Childrens Research Institute
Location: Australia
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