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ERIC Number: EJ1182913
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0256-8543
EISSN: N/A
Early Childhood Educators' Perception of Their Role in Children's Physical Activity: Do We Need to Clarify Expectations?
Connelly, Judy-Ann; Champagne, Manon; Manningham, Suzanne
Journal of Research in Childhood Education, v32 n3 p283-294 2018
Early childhood educators are key players in shaping young children's active behavior. However, their involvement in children's physical activity (PA) may vary along a continuum, ranging from active participation to distant supervision. This qualitative study sought to explore how childcare directors and early childhood educators (ECEs) perceive early childhood educators' role in children's PA. Data collection included 12 semistructured interviews (nine ECEs and three directors) that focused on three aspects defining the role: the expected role, the role played, and the desired role. The thematic analysis revealed that ECEs value PA but understand their role as professionals in varying ways due to unknown expectations. They identified their planning and motivation as solutions to promote PA; yet professional freedom hinders change in practices. Overall, discrepancies exist between the expected, played, and desired roles. Results are discussed from an ecological perspective and suggest improving communication between ECEs, parents, and directors to increase children's PA levels and strengthen ties between the homes and childcare centers.
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A