Physiological characteristics, self-perceptions, and parental support of physical activity in children with, or at risk of, developmental coordination disorder

The effect of parental logistic support on physical activity in children with, or at risk of, movement difficulties

“…Scores derived from the CSAPPA have been shown to demonstrate strong test-retest reliability in children aged 6-16 years. 6,18 Internal consistency estimates (␣) for scores derived from each CSAPPA dimension in this study were 0.83, 0.83, and 0.86 for adequacy, predilection, and enjoyment, respectively.…”

“…Additionally, the demographics of our participants differed through the inclusion of younger children (6-12 years) and those with varying movement proficiency profiles. As we noted previously, the inclusion of children across the movement proficiency spectrum may be responsible for differences not only in terms of PA-related self-perceptions, but also with respect to perceived parent support for PA. 6 Regardless of the lack of a direct effect, however, it was noteworthy that children's perceptions' of parent logistic support were indirectly associated with greater downstream child MVPA through a positive effect on children's perceptions of confidence (or adequacy) for PA. In addition, it was interesting that this indirect pathway was observed even despite accounting for the potential effects of movement proficiency on PA.…”

“…A detailed overview of study design has been previously published. 6 One hundred and twenty age-matched children aged 6-12 years, half with low movement proficiency and half as typically developing were recruited from the community, including community-based paediatric exercise programs. Written consent was obtained from a parent/guardian, as was ongoing verbal assent from the child.…”

“…[1][2][3] Of particular concern are children with movement difficulties, who often struggle with activities of daily living, scholastic achievement and active play due to impairments in fine and gross motor skills and engage in even less PA than their typically developing peers. [4][5][6] Accordingly, there is a need for researchers and clinicians to better understand the reasons that children with movement difficulties are less active, and to develop methods for successful interventions to promote PA in this population.…”

“…In a recent investigation among children with and without movement difficulties, Wright et al demonstrated differences in the physical and psychosocial profiles of children. 6 Levels of parental support (for PA) was investigated and were also found to differ, with children with movement difficulties receiving less logistical support for PA (e.g., transport to places they can be active) from their parents. The reasons for the (relative) lack of support were not identified in the investigation; however, these findings identify-and support previous work 10,11 showing-that PA support from parents may be an important contributor to children's PA (and associated PA perceptions) among this cohort.…”