STUDENT SUBMISSION
A descriptive correlational study was conducted on 371 fifth-grade students and their parents to identify those variables that influence the child's enactment of diet and physical activity. This research determined that most children do not have healthy eating habits. Scores for this sample ranged from 0% - 100% healthy food choices, with a group mean of 42.3% healthy choices. Many lower-income children eat two meals (breakfast and lunch) each day at their school, and most children eat at least one meal/day at their school. As health professionals, we need to advocate for the purchase and preparation of healthier school meals. This research also determined that many children are not participating in enough moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity. On a scale of 0-684, the scores for moderate-vigorous physical activity ranged from 15-501, with a group mean of 166.4. The majority of fifth-grade students in this investigation reported that physical education classes were offered in school only once per week. Health care professionals need to encourage schools to include physical education as an integral component of the curriculum. This research also suggests that different approaches may need to be used with boys and girls. Indeed, this study determined that affective response to exercise (feelings toward exercise) was the single most contributor to the variance in moderate-vigorous physical activity participation for girls (b=.291, p=.001). Enjoyment of the activity for its own sake rather than solely for competition may be one way of encouraging involvement.
Learning Objectives: LEARNING OBJECTIVES *At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner)in this session will be able to: 1. Identify four ways that health professionals can advocate for public health in schools. 2. Discuss the determinants of diet and physical activity of fifth-grade children. 3. Describe gender differences related to diet and physical activity behaviors in fifth-grade children. TEACHING OBJECTIVES 1. During this session, faculty will discuss her research regarding the unhealthy habits of fifth-grade children and the need for schools to promote healthy growth and development of its students, including their physical growth and development. 2. During this session, faculty will discuss her research regarding the determinants of diet and physical activity of the fifth-grade child. 3. During this session, faculty will discuss her research regarding the relationship of gender to diet and physical activity of the fifth-grade child
Keywords: Health Behavior, Child Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.