CATCH Kids Club 3-Year Pilot in After-School Programs

Background: The Coordinated Approach to Child Health Kids Club (CKC) pilot was implemented in 20 after-school programs across the state with the primary goal of reducing obesity among participants. Purpose: The purpose of this evaluation was to determine if CKC participation resulted in increased physical activity behavior and self-efficacy among enrolled children. Significance: If CKC improves participants' physical activity behavior and self-efficacy, then CKC can be expanded into other after-school programs across the state. Methodology: Between 2007 and 2010, 3rd-5th grade students enrolled in CKC after-school programs (n=1,439) completed a questionnaire assessing physical activity behavior and self-efficacy each fall and spring. Observers quantified physical activity of K-5 students (n=76) each spring using SOFIT (System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time). Group changes in behavior and self-efficacy were assessed each semester via t-tests. Group changes in physical activity were assessed yearly using t-tests. Results: Students' confidence in being active increased from fall to spring in the first two years, and declined between years (means: Fall07, 2.34; Spr08, 2.48; Fall08, 2.28; Spr09, 2.50; Fall09, 2.31; Spr10, 2.29; p < 0.05). Time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity increased from 43.3% to 59.8% between years 1 and 2, and declined slightly to 52.8% in year 3. Conclusions: Implementing CATCH in after-school programs improved physical activity self-efficacy and time spent being physically active during the school year. Consequently, CATCH has expanded to 80 after-school programs, and the efficacy of having a physical activity policy in an after-school program is being piloted at 10 of these sites.