2245377579 - Complete Thesis.docx, Complete Thesis.docx complete_Thesis

Title page

Table of Contents Chapter 1: Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 3 1.1 Background .................................................................................................................................. 3 1.2 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................ 5 1.3 Aims ............................................................................................................................................. 6 1.5 Justification ........................................................................................................................................ 7 1.6 Assumptions, Scope and Limitations ................................................................................................. 8 1.7 Definition of terms ........................................................................................................................... 10 Chapter 2: Literature Review ..................................................................................................................... 11 2.1 Definitions of Physical Activity ............................................................................................................. 12 2.1.1 Importance and Benefits of Physical Activity .................................................................................... 13 2.1.2 Types of Physical Activity .................................................................................................................. 14 2.2 Active Play ........................................................................................................................................... 16 2.2.1 How is active play measured? ........................................................................................................... 17 2.2.2 Benchmark for active play as defined by Active Healthy Kids? ......................................................... 17 2.3 Family and Peers influence on Active Play ........................................................................................... 18 2.4 Environmental Factors Influencing Active Play Behaviours .................................................................. 19 2.5 Government Policies and Active Play ................................................................................................... 20 2.6 What do International Organisations say about Active Play? .............................................................. 21 2.3 Health and Developmental Impacts of Inadequate Active Play ............................................................ 21 2.4 The Social Ecological Model Framework .............................................................................................. 22 2.4 Gaps in Literature ................................................................................................................................ 23 Chapter 3: Methodology ............................................................................................................................ 25 3.1 Research Design ................................................................................................................................... 25 3.2 Instrumentation and Data Source ........................................................................................................ 26 3.3 Data Extraction .................................................................................................................................... 27 3.4 Statistical Analysis Methods ................................................................................................................ 28 3.5 Limitations ........................................................................................................................................... 29 Chapter 4: Results ...................................................................................................................................... 30 4.1 Description of Data Presentation ......................................................................................................... 30 4.2 Summary of Findings ........................................................................................................................... 31 4.3 Overview of Selected Countries ........................................................................................................... 32 4.4 Research Questions ............................................................................................................................. 33

Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 Background It is impossible to exaggerate the significance of physical play in children's growth and development. In addition to being essential for maintaining good physical health, regular physical activity is also very important for a person's mental, emotional, and social growth. Focusing on family and peer dynamics, community and environmental impacts, and the impact of government regulations, this background research seeks to understand the numerous elements that influence children's involvement in active play. Relationships with Contemporaries When a child is young, the family is the most important social group in their lives. An individual's moral compass, worldview, and conduct are shaped in part by their immediate and extended family. The family is crucial in creating a nurturing atmosphere when it comes to active play. When families value and promote physical activity, children are more inclined to partake. On the other hand, if a youngster doesn't have positive role models or family support, they might not be as inclined to play actively. When kids connect with their peers, it may have a significant impact on their actions, such as whether or not they do sports. Peer group dynamics can encourage or discourage physical activity during play. For example, a kid is more inclined to join in on outside activities like playing sports or games if that's what their peers do. Conversely, a child's excitement for physical activities could be dampened by peer pressure or their peers' lack of interest in vigorous play. Impacts on Society and the Environment The neighborhood and physical surroundings in which children reside also substantially affect the chances for active play, in addition to the family and peer setting. Encouraging physical exercise may be achieved through the availability of parks, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities that are safe and well-kept[ CITATION Bur19 \l 1033 ]. A child's access to safe and open outdoor areas may be limited in places where such areas are few. In addition, parents' propensity to let their children play outside is affected by factors such as neighborhood safety and walkability. More likely to cultivate an atmosphere favorable to active

play are communities that place a premium on pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and have low crime rates. A community's leisure activities and organized sports also have a role in determining how active youngsters play. The larger social setting in which children develop is significantly impacted by governmental policy. Indirectly or directly, children's access to chances for active play can be influenced by policies pertaining to public health, urban development, and education. A child's daily physical activity is aided, for instance, by school curriculum that place an emphasis on physical education and recess time. Similarly, communities are better able to encourage physical activity when urban planning regulations set aside land for parks and other recreational spaces. Conversely, policies that fail to prioritize the creation of safe public areas or that restrict physical education in schools may unintentionally discourage children from playing actively[ CITATION Hin20 \l 1033 ]. To summarize, the complex web of factors affecting children's active play necessitates investigation into the interplay between family, peers, the community, and the environment, as well as the role of public policy. Exploring these interrelated fields can help researchers better understand how to build spaces that encourage kids to have active, healthy lives. This first research lays the groundwork for future studies that will try to improve kids' health by increasing their access to active play and, by extension, their chances for healthy development via play. 1.2 Purpose This study aims to explore and understand the complex elements that impact children's participation in active play. Understanding the significance of physical activity for children's overall growth, this study seeks to illuminate how factors such as family dynamics, peer influences, community and environmental effects, and government regulations impact children's active play habits. First, the study aims to understand how family structures and peer interactions might either encourage or discourage a child's tendency towards active play by analyzing the impact of family and peer dynamics. Its stated goal is to identify the precise ways in which children's peer interactions, role modeling, and parental support influence their exercise choices. To better

6 Examine the role of environmental factors, including the availability and quality of playgrounds, parks, and other recreational facilities, in influencing children's choices for physical activities. 7 Evaluate the impact of neighborhood characteristics on parental decisions regarding outdoor play and children's independent mobility. 1.5 Justification The justification for conducting this study lies in the paramount importance of understanding and optimizing the factors that influence children's engagement in active play. As childhood obesity rates rise, sedentary lifestyles become more prevalent, and concerns about the overall health and well-being of children intensify, it becomes imperative to delve into the multifaceted influences that contribute to or hinder physical activity among the younger population[ CITATION Jan20 \l 1033 ]. The following points outline the justification for this study: 1. Public Health Implications:  Childhood obesity and related health issues have become significant public health concerns globally. Physical inactivity is a key contributor to these issues, emphasizing the need to identify and address the factors influencing children's engagement in active play.  By understanding these influences, interventions and policies can be developed to promote a more active lifestyle among children, thereby contributing to the prevention of obesity and associated health problems. 2. Holistic Development of Children:  Active play is not only vital for physical health but also plays a crucial role in cognitive, social, and emotional development. Physical activities stimulate brain function, enhance social skills, and contribute to emotional well-being.  Investigating the influences on active play aligns with a holistic approach to child development, aiming to create environments that support the overall well-being of children. 3. Addressing Disparities:

 The study can shed light on potential disparities in access to active play opportunities. It is essential to identify whether certain demographic groups or communities face barriers to engaging in physical activities, allowing for targeted interventions to address these disparities.  Understanding these disparities can contribute to the development of inclusive policies and programs that ensure all children, regardless of their background, have equal access to active play opportunities. 4. Informing Educational Practices:  Given the significant amount of time children spend in educational settings, the study's findings can inform educational practices. Insights into the impact of educational policies on physical activity levels can guide the development of curriculum enhancements and school policies that promote active play.  This aligns with the broader goal of creating school environments that foster not only academic success but also the overall health and well-being of students. 5. Policy Relevance and Impact:  The study has direct policy relevance by evaluating the impact of government policies on children's active play. Policymakers can use the evidence-based recommendations to refine existing policies or develop new initiatives that support a physically active lifestyle for children.  Effective policies can contribute to creating communities that encourage and facilitate active play, fostering a culture of health and well-being from an early age. 1.6 Assumptions, Scope and Limitations Active play is assumed to have a good influence on children's overall development, which includes their physical, mental, emotional, and social development. The study makes the assumption that active play exerts a favourable influence on children's development. This theory is based on the assumption that the dynamics of the family and the children's peers play key roles

difficult to evaluate the long-term consequences of family, peer, and community factors on physically active play among children. External elements These external elements, which include economic conditions, global events, or unanticipated societal changes, have the potential to influence the findings of the study and their application throughout the course of time. It is possible that the research will take a cross-sectional approach, which will restrict its capacity to determine the kinds of causal linkages that exist between the variables being studied. It is possible that the influence of government policies is dependent on how effectively they are implemented, and it is also possible that the study does not fully capture variances in the way policies are carried out within the government. Concerning the Whole, You Should In order to properly interpret the findings of the study, researchers and readers should be aware of the assumptions, scope, and limitations that were previously mentioned. It is crucial to identify the contextual limits and potential biases that are inherent in the study design and data collection procedures, despite the fact that the research delivers valuable insights with regard to the circumstances[ CITATION Tim22 \l 1033 ]. Furthermore, admitting the scope will assist in defining the bounds of the study and will provide readers with information regarding the generalizability of the observed results. 1.7 Definition of terms Defining the important terms that are employed throughout the investigation is quite necessary in order to guarantee that the research is both clear and accurate. Listed below are some definitions that have been given for concepts that may be essential to comprehending the research that has been conducted on children's active play:  Running, jumping, climbing, and organized sports are all examples of activities that fall under the category of "physical activities that involve movement and contribute to the overall well-being of children."  Families are defined as the patterns of interactions, relationships, and communication that occur within a family unit. These patterns include the responsibilities that family members play and the influence that they have on one another.

 Peer influence refers to the social interactions and relationships that occur between children of comparable age groups. Peer impact encompasses the influence that peers have on each other's attitudes, behaviours, and choices, particularly when it comes to active play.  Characteristics of a community that may have an effect on the amount of time children spend engaging in active play, such as the accessibility of recreational spaces, the level of safety, the degree of walkability, and the extent of community programs.  The elements of the physical environment, such as the quality and accessibility of playgrounds, parks, and recreational facilities, that have the potential to impact the decisions that children make regarding the kind of physical activities that they participate in.  These are the rules, regulations, and directives that have been set by governmental entities and have the potential to have an effect, either directly or indirectly, on the amount of time that children spend engaging in active play. The policies that fall under this category include those concerning education, urban development, and public health.  A holistic approach to the development of a child that takes into account the kid's physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, while also acknowledging the interdependence of these components of the child's development together.  Active play is defined as the possible effects on the overall health and well-being of the population, particularly children, that are a result of factors associated to active play. These effects include the prevention of health disorders such as childhood obesity. Inequalities or inequalities in access to opportunities, resources, or results connected to active play, which may be influenced by factors such as socio-economic status or geographical location.  There are a variety of strategies, techniques, and policies within educational settings that have the potential to influence children's participation in active play. These include the role that physical education curriculum and school policies play in this influence. The extent to which the findings of research can be used to inform and contribute to the formulation or refinement of policies enacted by the government with the intention of fostering active play and general health among children[ CITATION Tro20 \l 1033 ]. The purpose of these definitions is to set the groundwork for a shared understanding and interpretation of terminology

 Strength-building exercises employing weights, resistance bands, or body weight.  Activities that increase joint mobility and flexibility. Yoga and stretching are examples.  Programs that promote healthy eating and exercise to reduce childhood obesity. The research team assures a shared understanding of physical activity concepts by defining this terminology[ CITATION Vei19 \l 1033 ]. Clarity helps researchers comprehend findings and communicate with the public. 2.1.1 Importance and Benefits of Physical Activity When it comes to preserving one's general health and well-being, physical activity is absolutely necessary, and the benefits of this activity extend to a wide range of facets of an individual's life. The following is a list of important factors that illustrate the significance and advantages of engaging in regular physical activity: Engaging in physical activity can help relieve tension and anxiety by stimulating the creation of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that have the ability to function as natural mood enhancers. Memory, attention, and the ability to solve problems are all areas that can be enhanced with regular exercise, which is related with increased cognitive performance. Depression and anxiety are two examples of mental health illnesses that can be prevented and managed with the help of physical activity, which can be an important component in the prevention and management of these disorders[ CITATION Wor211 \l 1033 ]. Weight-bearing and resistance workouts both contribute to improved bone density, which in turn reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, particularly in later life. Health of the Metabolic System Regular physical activity has been shown to promote insulin sensitivity, which in turn allows for better regulation of blood sugar levels and a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes. When you exercise on a regular basis, you can speed up your metabolism, which can help you control your weight and improve your metabolic health overall. There is a correlation between physical activity and improved sleep quality, and it can assist individuals in falling asleep more quickly and experiencing more restorative sleep. Participating in group activities or sports is a great way to encourage social contact, which in turn helps to cultivate interpersonal connections and a

sense of belonging within a community. Teamwork, leadership, and cooperation are all abilities that may be developed through participation in team sports in order to build a stronger team. Initiatives to Prevent Health Problems One of the most preventative measures that can be taken to prevent a variety of health disorders and contribute to a longer and healthier life is to participate in physical activity. The significance of engaging in physical activity is something that just cannot be emphasized[ CITATION Oke19 \l 1033 ]. As a result of its beneficial effects on one's physical, mental, and social well- being, the adoption of this practice into one's daily routine is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. One of the most important investments that one can make in their health and lifespan is engaging in regular physical activity. This can be accomplished through planned workout regimens, recreational activities, or active play. 2.1.2 Types of Physical Activity The term "physical activity" encompasses a broad spectrum of pursuits that vary in length, intensity, and goal. A few examples of popular forms of exercise are: Aerobic Workouts  Exercises that improve cardiovascular health by raising the heart rate and respiration rate.  Activities such as swimming, aerobics, jogging, brisk walking, dancing, and cycling are examples. Power Exercises  Resistance training, often known as weightlifting, is an exercise method that aims to increase muscular strength.  Exercises using weights, resistance bands, or just one's own body weight (such as squats and push-ups) are all good examples. Flexibility Physical activities  Movements that work to increase flexibility and range of motion in the joints.  Some examples include yoga, Pilates, and stretching.

 Zumba, hip-hop, and ballroom dancing are a few examples. Getting Moving  Physical activities that are not predetermined and happen on a whim; good for people of all ages, but typically linked with kids.  Games like tag, hide-and-seek, and using playground equipment are a few examples. Yoga for the Mind and Body  Sporting events are defined as those that bring together physical activity, mental concentration, and relaxation.  Tai chi, yoga, and Pilates are a few examples. Water exercise  Water exercise is defined as physical activity that uses water as a resistance medium and uses water to lessen the strain on joints.  Things like swimming, water aerobics, and water jogging are examples. Outdoor Adventure  Commutes on foot or bike, manual labour, and housework are all good examples.  Exercising one's physical and mental limits via various outdoor pursuits is a definition of adventure sports.  Mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and kayaking are among examples. People with varying tastes, degrees of physical fitness, and health objectives can choose an activity that suits them among these many options[ CITATION Gov21 \l 1033 ]. The most important thing is to discover healthy things to do that people actually love doing and can include into their daily lives. 2.2 Active Play When children engage in unstructured, spontaneous, and voluntary physical activities for the sake of enjoyment, exploration, and social connection, this type of play is referred to as active play. In contrast to organized sports or scheduled exercises, active play is characterized by its

intrinsic freedom, which enables children to move, run, leap, and interact with their surroundings and classmates in a manner that is not predetermined. It frequently involves the use of imagination and creativity, and it encourages youngsters to explore their physical capabilities while they are having fun. Children's physical fitness, cognitive development, social skills, and emotional well-being are all improved via the participation in active play, which is a crucial component of children's overall development. Children can learn fundamental motor skills, create confidence, and form a good association with physical exercise through this activity, which can lay the foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle throughout their entire lives. This activity is both natural and pleasurable for children[ CITATION Bro203 \l 1033 ]. 2.2.1 How is active play measured? The evaluation of children's active play is a multi-faceted endeavour that frequently calls for a blend of subjective assessments, self-reports, and objective metrics. One popular approach is for qualified researchers or teachers to simply watch kids in different places, such playgrounds or recreational areas, and note how often, how vigorously, and for how long they play. When working with older children, self-reporting is collecting data directly from the kids themselves using tools like activity diaries, surveys, or questionnaires. On the other hand, social desirability bias and recollection bias could affect this approach. Modern technology has made it possible to objectively quantify physical activity with the use of accelerometers and other wearable sensors. For a more precise measurement of active play, wearable accelerometers record movement patterns in real time. On the other hand, the intangible qualities of play, like imagination and camaraderie, might elude modern gadgets[ CITATION Smi202 \l 1033 ]. Qualitative evaluations, in addition to quantitative ones, are crucial for comprehending the setting and character of active play. A more complete picture can be formed by keeping an eye on the many play-related activities, social interactions, and environmental elements. To gain a better understanding of how kids perceive and engage in active play, it can be helpful to conduct interviews, focus groups, and play diaries with them. The subjective character of play, cultural variations, and the diversity of play environments all provide obstacles to accurate measurements of active play. Active play evaluations can be more accurately and reliably conducted with the use of standardized tools and methods, as well as a comprehensive approach that takes into

to acquire the most up-to-date and precise information on benchmarks for active play[ CITATION Pro20 \l 1033 ]. 2.3 Family and Peers influence on Active Play. When it comes to children's attitudes, preferences, and actions towards physical exercise, family and friends have a deep and complex impact. Children look up to their parents and other family members as role models, and they shape their views on the value of physical activity through play. Children are more likely to see exercise favourably and as an essential component of their everyday life when they see that their families value and engage in physical activities. When children grow up in homes that encourage and support them, they are more likely to acquire motor skills, form healthy habits, and value their physical fitness throughout their lives[ CITATION Pat20 \l 1033 ]. Furthermore, the impact of family goes beyond mere involvement and include the establishment of favourable surroundings. A culture that promotes and makes available active involvement is fostered when families offer secure outside locations, sports equipment, and chances for unstructured play. On the flip side, children may develop sedentary habits if they grow up in homes that do not value physical exercise or if screen time is prioritized over active play. Peer interactions are just as important as family factors when it comes to influencing kids' decisions when it comes to active play. Children frequently act out in ways that their classmates do because they want to fit in and be liked. A youngster is more likely to take part in extracurricular activities, such as sports and games, if they see that their close friends also enjoy and participate in active play. A youngster may be discouraged from engaging in active play if they feel pressured by their peers or if their pals do not enjoy physical activities. A child's social environment, which includes both their family and their classmates, has a major impact on their physical development. In order to provide a well-rounded and encouraging atmosphere for kids to excel in physical activities, programs and interventions designed to encourage active play must take into account the interplay between these factors and address the dynamics within families and among peers[ CITATION Cra21 \l 1033 ].

2.4 Environmental Factors Influencing Active Play Behaviours. The physical environment and community features that promote or discourage chances for exercise and leisure are examples of environmental elements that significantly impact children's active play behaviours. Important factors include the accessibility and condition of green spaces, playgrounds, and parks. Spaces for running, leaping, and playing sports in well-planned and secure settings promote active play, which in turn helps children develop their motor skills and stay physically fit. In contrast, children may be less inclined to explore and be physically active in settings that do not provide these amenities or are marked by safety concerns, which might restrict their access to active play. Walkability and accessibility are two neighbourhood factors that have a substantial impact on active play habits. Children are more likely to engage in unscheduled play in communities that are designed for pedestrians and have well-connected routes that allow them to go outdoors and be autonomous. The inverse is also true: places that aren't very walkable or where people are afraid to play outside may limit their freedom of movement. Additionally, a community's cultural and recreational amenities add to the range of chances for active play. Communities that put money into leisure programs, community events, and organized sports make it possible for kids to play sports under adult supervision[ CITATION Ban19 \l 1033 ]. The benefits to one's physical well-being are multiplied by the positive effects on one's social life and feeling of community that result from this. On the flip side, kids in areas without these facilities may unintentionally have fewer opportunities for structured, varied play. In children's active play experiences are shaped by the context in which they occur. The presence of clean, well-kept outdoor areas, along with community backing for leisure pursuits, makes for a setting that encourages exercise. In order to foster an active play culture that aids children's holistic development and well-being, it is crucial to identify and improve key environmental elements. 2.5 Government Policies and Active Play The landscape of active play for children is significantly shaped by the policies of the government, which in turn influence the accessibility, safety, and possibilities that are accessible within communities. The policies that are enacted in the areas of public health, urban planning,