Differences between Norwegian male and female preschool staff physical activity levels and their influence on PA levels of children.

The study investigates whether there are differences in how active male and female kindergarten employees are during kindergarten hours. The researchers also investigated whether the staff initiated and participated in children's physical play in kindergarten. The research question is: Are there differences between male and female kindergarten staff with regard to their level of physical activity during kindergarten hours, and their initiative and participation in children's physical activity in kindergarten?

The results show that male kindergarten employees are more physically active than their female colleagues are. However, the men felt that they received less encouragement from other staff to be active with the children. The researchers behind the study believe that even though men's activity level is positive for children's physical activity, traditional gender stereotypes in kindergartens should be challenged for a more inclusive working environment.

In order to measure activity levels, the researchers used accelerometers, which recorded movement over seven days, and questionnaires to map the employees' perception of their activity with the children. In order to gain deeper insight into how gender affects physical activity, observations were also made in three selected kindergartens and group interviews were conducted in five kindergartens. In total, 72 kindergarten employees from 13 randomly selected kindergartens participated in the study.

Lagestad, P. A., & Kippe, K. O.  (2021). “Differences between Norwegian male and female preschool staff physical activity levels and their influence on PA levels of children”, Education, 3-13, DOI: 10.1080/03004279.2021.2010228.