Exploring the Seasonal Influences on Elementary Schoolchildren's Enjoyment of Physical Activity during School Breaks

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the seasonal influences on elementary school children's enjoyment of physical activity during school breaks. Methods: The Lunchtime Enjoyment of Activity and Play (LEAP) questionnaire and Physical Activity Children's Enjoyment Scale (PACES) were used to measure children's (N = 80) enjoyment of physical activity longitudinally during school breaks over 4 time points. Separate mixed regression models determined whether children's enjoyment differed by sex and over time. Results: Children's enjoyment of physical activity during school breaks was significantly higher in March (autumn in the southern hemisphere) in comparison with time points later in the school year. Conclusions: The findings suggest strategies could be implemented by schools to maintain and enhance children's enjoyment of physical activity during school breaks later in the year.