Involving Year One students to help shape research
Overview of Research
Dr. Bina Ram is involved in the iMprOVE cohort study, which examines the relationship between children’s physical activity and mental health in primary schools that do and do not implement physical activity interventions. Despite the known health benefits of regular physical activity, only half of children in England meet the recommended 60 minutes per day. The National Obesity Plan in England advocates for school-based physical activity interventions, which have the potential to reach all children. However, there is currently limited evidence on the long-term benefits of such interventions. The study aims to measure the physical and mental health of children in Year 1 (ages 5 to 6) in primary schools, with follow-ups throughout their primary school years.
To enhance the study, a wrist-worn physical activity monitor was piloted, which children were asked to wear for a week. A workshop was conducted with Year 1 pupils to understand their perceptions of physical activity and gather feedback on wearing the monitors.
Objectives of the Study
The primary goal was to capture children’s experiences regarding the comfort and fit of the monitor throughout different activities, including during sleep and bathing. Understanding children’s concerns and issues with the monitor is essential for improving its design and informing the accompanying information leaflet for participants.
Prior to issuing the monitors, children engaged in discussions about physical activity and were asked to express their feelings using picture cards and smiley face stickers before and after participating in a ‘Just Dance’ activity.
Options included feeling: ‘relaxed’, ‘excited’, ‘hot’, ‘tired’ and ‘nervous’
Participant Recruitment and Engagement
Elsley Primary School, located in north-west London, was selected based on a survey sent to state-funded primary schools in Greater London. The school’s PE Specialist Teacher, Mr. Wilke, and Headteacher, Mr. Moss, expressed strong interest and support for the research, facilitating the execution of the workshops.
Training and Involvement of Participants
No formal training was required for the children. Dr. Ram's extensive experience with health and developmental assessments in children proved valuable. Esta Orchard, an expert in engaging children and young people in research, led the first workshop, with Mr. Wilke present throughout both sessions.
Outcomes and Insights Gained
The discussions and feedback gathered from the children were instrumental in designing an informative leaflet that resonates with their understanding.
During the first workshop, children were asked why exercise is important. Responses included:
“Gives us energy”
“Helps us to grow”
“Keeps us fit”
“Helps you to eat more healthily”
“Makes us strong”
“It helps you to sleep well”
Feedback on wearing the monitors highlighted both positive and negative aspects. Positive remarks included:
“Felt great, did not hurt”
“I liked it, it was soft and comfortable”
Conversely, some children reported issues:
“Too loose, worried it would fall off”
“Itchy”
Responses regarding comfort varied, indicating a mix of satisfaction and discomfort with the monitor's strap.
Impact on Children’s Engagement
The children were enthusiastic about their involvement, eager to understand how their feedback would influence public health research. Their inquisitive nature fostered a sense of ownership in the study.
Challenges and Solutions in Public Involvement
A challenge identified during the workshops was that children's responses tended to be influenced by their peers. For instance, one child's comment about their heartbeat prompted others to echo similar sentiments. To address this in the second workshop, Dr. Ram divided the children into smaller groups to encourage more varied responses.
Advice for Other Researchers
Dr. Ram advises researchers to ensure that activities and materials are age-appropriate, using language that resonates with the target age group. For example, terms like ‘exercise’ and ‘body movement’ were used instead of ‘physical activity’ for clarity. Additionally, it's important to create an inclusive environment where all participants have an opportunity to express themselves.
Future Plans
The workshops are part of an ongoing collaboration with Elsley Primary School, aimed at establishing a mutually beneficial partnership. Future plans include forming a child, parent, and teacher advisory group to provide guidance on study materials, including questionnaires. The insights gained will inform recruitment strategies and the design of study information leaflets. Regular interaction with the advisory group will aid in effectively communicating the study’s findings to the public, fostering a close and collaborative relationship with Elsley Primary School throughout the research process.