Differences between Norwegian male and female preschool staff physical activity levels and their influence on PA levels of children

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to examine differences between Norwegian male and female preschool staff according to physical activity (PA) levels during preschool hours. Using a mixed-method design, accelerometers were used to examine objectively measured PA level among male and female preschool staff, while observations, interviews and questionnaires were used to support the accelerometer data, and identify patterns related to preschool staff and children’s PA. The accelerometer data, observations, and interviews pointed towards male preschool staff as more physically active at preschool than female preschool staff. Observation and interview data further indicated that male staff interacted more than female staff in children’s active play. The findings suggest that male preschool staff contribute especially positively according to children’s PA in preschool, and that it is important to educate more male preschool teachers.