This is shown by a study conducted by the Mulier Institute among 750 parents of 4- to 11-year-olds to map the effects of the coronavirus measures on children's physical activity. The study took place from 21 to 27 April 2020, when schools were closed and there were no organised sports or play opportunities. On the evening of 21 April 2020, the reopening of schools on 11 May was announced, as was the fact that physical activities such as sports would again be permitted for children on a limited scale.
Other important findings:
- It appears that the difference in physical activity time between the least and most active children increased during the intelligent lockdown. Of the group of children who are normally less physically active, 38 percent became even less active in spring 2020.
- Fifty-eight percent of parents experience obstacles when encouraging their child to get or remain sufficiently physically active, such as a lack of time (22%) or a lack of energy (20%).
- The proportion of parents estimating that their child normally plays outside for no more than 5 hours per week in spring (52%) was roughly the same in spring 2020 (55%). The proportion of children who, according to their parents, play outside for more than 15 hours per week doubled (8% normally in spring, 16% in spring 2020).
- In general, parents consider the measures concerning playing outside to be clear, sensible and feasible. After the press conference, a larger proportion of parents considered the measures clear. Almost all parents allow their child to play outside (97%).
Click here for the report ‘Children's physical activity during the coronavirus pandemic’.