Kindergarten practitioners’ experience of promoting children’s involvement in and enjoyment of physically active play: Does the contagion of physical energy affect physically active play?

Abstract

This research is based on interviews that explore the reflections of 10 Norwegian kindergarten practitioners with regard to the importance of their involvement in children’s physically active outdoor playtime. The data were analysed from a qualitative phenomenological perspective and resulted in basic themes that describe the practitioners’ experiences. The findings highlight the intersubjectivity, physical communication and reciprocity involved in promoting children’s involvement in and enjoyment of physically active play. From the practitioners’ perspectives, their ability to be involved in and share experiences of physically active play with the children is essential for encouraging children to be inspired and involved in such play. They see themselves as important role models, and think that offering support and sharing responses with children in these situations is valuable for children’s physical mastery. The findings from this study emphasize the importance of practitioners being involved and actively promoting children’s physically active play.