Clinical Report: Enhancing Physical Activity Among Children in After-School Care Programs

Overview

A large implementation science trial involving 197 after-school programs in Australia demonstrated that accreditation combined with online training can enhance children's physical activity levels. The study found that programs achieving accreditation were more likely to increase physical activity and decrease screen time among children.

Background

Physical inactivity among children is a global concern, with many programs failing to meet recommended activity levels. This study examines the modification of organizational practices in after-school care settings to promote physical activity.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Half of the OSHC programs complied with physical activity and screen time guidelines.
• Accredited programs were more likely to increase children's physical activity and decrease screen time.
• Staff behaviors shifted towards promoting physical activity in accredited programs.
• Environmental changes included the addition of physical activity equipment.
• Programs with lower baseline activity showed larger gains in children's physical activity.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate that training and accreditation can modify organizational practices to enhance children's physical activity levels.

Conclusion

The study highlights the role of accreditation and training in improving physical activity among children in after-school care programs.

Related Resources & Content

1. Maher et al, JAMA Network Open, 2026 -- A Policy-Based Intervention for Physical Activity and Screen Time in Childcare Outside School Hours: A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial
2. BMJ Paediatrics Open — Physical activity levels of an inpatient paediatric population: a cross-sectional service evaluation
3. Frontiers in Psychiatry — Impact of a 16-week tailored exercise program on physical and behavioral outcomes in two pediatric patients with autism spectrum disorder: a case study
4. Frontiers in Pediatrics — Experiences of children with obesity and their parents of participating in a physical activity on prescription intervention: a qualitative study
5. Pediatric Cardiology — Early Improvement in Cardiac Autonomic Modulation After a Recreational Physical Training Program in Healthy Children
6. Child Activity: An Overview | Physical Activity Basics | CDC
7. A Policy-Based Intervention for Physical Activity and Screen Time in Childcare Outside School Hours: A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial | Public Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
8. Frontiers | Effects of school-based physical activity interventions on physical fitness and psychosocial adaptation in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis