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Research
Understanding and optimising gratitude interventions: the right methods for the right people at the right timeGratitude has consistently been associated with various beneficial health-related outcomes, including subjective wellbeing, positive mental health, and positive physical health. In light of such effects, positive psychology researchers and practitioners have often implemented gratitude interventions in an attempt to build individuals' orientations toward appreciation and thankfulness. Recent meta-analyses and reviews have revealed, however, that these interventions often have mixed effects on gratitude or other health outcomes.
Research
Longitudinal effects of dog ownership, dog acquisition, and dog loss on children’s movement behaviours: findings from the PLAYCE cohort studyRegular physical activity is important for children's physical and mental health, yet many children do not achieve recommended amounts of physical activity. Dog ownership has been associated with increased physical activity in children, however, there have been no longitudinal studies examining this relationship.
Research
Testing campaign slogans designed to motivate older people to be more physically activeBeing physically active is critical for healthy ageing, yet many older people do not meet physical activity guidelines. The aim of this study was to test the relative effectiveness of five previously identified campaign slogans designed to encourage older people to be more physically active: 'Be active 30-60 minutes a day to stay fit and well'; 'Move more, live longer'; 'Stay fit to stay functional'; 'This is your time - enjoy being strong and active'; and 'Use it or lose it'.
Research
Adaptations to scale-up an early childhood education and care physical activity intervention for real-world availability — Play ActiveAdaptations for scale-up are ubiquitous but are rarely described in detail. Adaptations may be a key reason for the "scale-up penalty" which is when there is a reduction in intervention effect size following scale-up. The Play Active intervention consists of a physical activity policy for early childhood education and care (ECEC) services, with accompanying implementation support strategies.
News & Events
Up and at ’em: The Kids physical activity researcher named a WA Young Tall PoppyA The Kids Research Institute Australia researcher focused on promoting more active childhoods to improve child health and wellbeing will be named amongst WA’s most outstanding young scientists at the upcoming 2020 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards.
News & Events
Childcare centres urged to adopt new policy to boost kids’ physical activityChildcare centres will be invited to help boost children’s physical activity levels by signing on to a new program which commits them to creating more opportunities for physical activity.
Research
Structured exercise programs for higher education students experiencing mental health challenges: background, significance, and implementationThe incidence of mental illness is greatest among young adults, and those enrolled in higher education may be particularly vulnerable compared to the general young adult population. Many higher education institutions employ student support staff tasked with implementing strategies to improve student wellbeing and mental illness.
Research
Physical activity management for youth with type 1 diabetes: Supporting active and inactive childrenRegular physical activity and exercise are important for youth and essential components of a healthy lifestyle. For youth with type 1 diabetes, regular physical activity can promote cardiovascular fitness, bone health, insulin sensitivity, and glucose management. However, the number of youth with type 1 diabetes who regularly meet minimum physical activity guidelines is low, and many encounter barriers to regular physical activity.
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Australian children's physical activity and screen time while in grandparental careThe objective of this study was to explore Australian children's engagement in physical activity and screen time while being cared for by their grandparents.
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Examining Changes in Implementation of Priority Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Practices, and Related Barriers, Over Time in Australian Early Childhood Education and Care ServicesPromoting healthy eating and physical activity in early childhood education and care is recommended within guidelines and supported by health promotion programs; however, implementation is suboptimal. Evidence suggests implementation within the sector varies over time; however, this has not been empirically examined in relation to implementation barriers.