Increasing Participation in After-School Sport and Physical Activity among Children and Youth: A Case Study of Providers in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Many children and youth that do not participate in after-school sport and physical activity (ASSPA) programs are opting instead for relatively sedentary activities. This investigation sought how to enhance the experiences and participation rates in ASSPA among children and youth through a mixed-method (survey and personal and focus group interviews) case study of over 300 ASSPA providers (individual practitioners and administrators). The results highlighted the joint role of demographic-intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental factors. Prominent demographic-intrapersonal barriers included participants’ prior experiences, motivation, money, understanding of participation benefits, and an urban or rural setting. The dominant interpersonal recommendation was better engagement of participants in family-oriented and socially-engaging programs. Noteworthy environmental themes were adequate resources, affordable programming, provincial policies, organizational coordination (particularly between schools and community agencies), and ensuring quality, quantity, and inclusivity in ASSPA programming and delivery. Providers prioritized inclusive ASSPA programming for physically active lifestyles, life skills, and movement skills rather than the development of elite athletes.