Boosting Children’s Physical Activity in Outside School Hours Care - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Enhancing Physical Activity Among Children in After-School Care Programs

  • By

  • Amanda E. Staiano

  • October 5, 2026

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

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPhysical Inactivity in Children
Key MechanismsAccreditation and online training to modify organizational practices.
Target PopulationChildren in after-school care programs (OSHC).
Care SettingOutside School Hours Care (OSHC) programs.

Key Highlights

  • Half of OSHC programs complied with physical activity and screen time guidelines.
  • Accredited programs were more likely to increase children's physical activity.
  • Staff behaviors shifted towards promoting physical activity.
  • Environmental changes facilitated increased physical activity among children.
  • Implementation success depended on organizational readiness and capacity.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

    Management

    • Implement accreditation combined with online training for staff.
    • Modify organizational practices to support physical activity.

    Monitoring & Follow-up

    • Assess adherence to physical activity and screen time guidelines.

    Risks

    • Programs with fewer resources may struggle to comply with accreditation.

    Patient & Prescribing Data

    Children enrolled in after-school care programs.

    Accreditation and training can indirectly influence children's activity levels.

    Clinical Best Practices

    • Encourage staff training on promoting physical activity.
    • Limit recreational screen time in after-school programs.
    • Provide physical activity equipment and resources.

    Related Resources & Content

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