Physical activity, screen time and the COVID-19 school closures in Europe - an observational study in 10 countries
Résumé
To date, fewdata on how the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions affected children’s physical activity
in Europe have been published. This study examined the prevalence and correlates of physical activity
and screen time from a large sample of European children during the COVID-19 pandemic to inform
strategies and provide adequate mitigation measures. An online survey was conducted using
convenience sampling from 15 May to 22 June, 2020. Parents were eligible if they resided in one of
the survey countries and their children aged 6–18 years. 8395 children were included (median age
[IQR], 13 [10–15] years; 47% boys; 57.6% urban residents; 15.5% in self-isolation). Approximately
two-thirds followed structured routines (66.4% [95%CI, 65.4–67.4]), and more than half were active
during online P.E. (56.6% [95%CI, 55.5–57.6]). 19.0% (95%CI, 18.2–19.9) met the WHO Global
physical activity recommendation. Total screen time in excess of 2 h/day was highly prevalent
(weekdays: 69.5% [95%CI, 68.5–70.5]; weekend: 63.8% [95%CI, 62.7–64.8]). Playing outdoors more
than 2 h/day, following a daily routine and being active in online P.E. increased the odds of healthy
levels of physical activity and screen time, particularly in mildly affected countries. In severely
affected countries, online P.E. contributed most to meet screen time recommendation, whereas
outdoor play was most important for adequate physical activity. Promoting safe and responsible
outdoor activities, safeguarding P.E. lessons during distance learning and setting pre-planned,
consistent daily routines are important in helping children maintain healthy active lifestyle in
pandemic situation. These factors should be prioritised by policymakers, schools and parents.
Domaines
Sciences du Vivant [q-bio]
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