How active are you?! Activity monitoring in children
Physical activity is essential for all children, with and without disabilities. Pediatric physical therapists support children to participate in physical activities and facilitate a physically active lifestyle. So far, no valid and feasible activity monitor is available to measure the level of physical activities in children with and without disabilities.
Objective
The main purpose of this study is to enable pediatric physical therapists to objectively and validly monitor physical activities in children with and without disabilities.
Results
- A valid activity monitor for children with and without disabilities.
- A web application that provides clear information for pediatric physical therapists, children and their parents about the level of physical activities of the children.
- Overview of facilitators and barriers regarding activity monitoring in pediatric physical therapy practice.
- Practical tools (f.e. educational and instructional material) to overcome barriers related to the usage of activity monitoring.
Duration
01 January 2021 - 01 January 2022
Approach
We are using a co-design approach, working together with developers, researchers and important stakeholders (such as pediatric physical therapists, children and parents). We will start with qualitative research (using semi-structured interviews) and context mapping. Thereafter, we will develop a web application and practical tools by cocreation sessions and design sprints, working closely with several living labs. We will perform a feasibility study at the end of the project.
Impact
Physical activity is essential for all children, with and without disabilities. Physical activity has positive effects on overall health, physical, psychosocial and cognitive development. Objective monitoring (by using an activity monitor) of physical activities is important. Subjective monitoring, f.e. by questionnaires, overestimates the total amount of physical activity and therefore provides no reliable information. So far, there is no objective and feasible activity monitor available for pediatric physical therapists to validly monitor physical activities in all children. Subsequently, it is not possible to provide adequate information about the level of physical activity of the children to their parents and the children themselves and to adjust and evaluate interventions.
