ERIC Number: EJ1260811
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1932-5037
EISSN: N/A
CATs to Kiddie CATS: Transforming an Elementary Physical Activity Curriculum for Preschoolers
Meyer, Lori E.; Hoza, Betsy; Martin, Caroline P.; Shoulberg, Erin K.; Tompkins, Connie L.; Dennis, Marissa; Krasner, Allison
American Journal of Health Education, v51 n4 p203-214 2020
Background: As more schools begin to include preschool classrooms, teachers and administrators may need physical activity (PA) curricula that are inclusive, specially designed for young children, and linked to PA curricula used with elementary students. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to pilot an elementary PA curriculum (i.e., "Children and Teachers [CATs] on the Move") with preschoolers to identify curricular adaptations to design a PA curriculum for preschoolers that is feasible for, and acceptable to, inclusive early childhood teachers. Methods: Focus groups were held with early childhood teachers and PA program leaders after the curriculum was used with preschoolers with and without disabilities across 13 weeks. Results: Teachers and program leaders identified changes to the program's structure, rules, activities, and the creation of enhancements to promote children's participation in the curriculum (e.g., visual supports). Discussion: Several fundamental changes were necessary for the CATs program to be feasible in early childhood classrooms. Teacher and program leader feedback led to a new curriculum (i.e., "Kiddie CATs on the Move"). Translation to Health Education Practice: It is crucial to choose an appropriate and inclusive PA curriculum specifically created for young children.
Descriptors: Physical Activities, Physical Activity Level, Preschool Education, Curriculum Design, Early Childhood Teachers, Teacher Attitudes, Program Effectiveness, Elementary Education, Preschool Curriculum, College Students, Student Attitudes, Students with Disabilities, Inclusion, Family Involvement, Visual Stimuli, Health Promotion
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Preschool Education; Elementary Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A