Physical Activity and Screen-Time Regulations in Childcare Centers - Aim 1

Physical Activity and Screen-Time Regulations in Childcare Centers: Influence on Young Children's Health Behaviors (Pause & Play) - Aim 1

The goal of this project is to examine the physical activity and screen-time environment of licensed childcare centers before and after the enactment of new state regulations.

Pause and Play will take a prospective observational epidemiological approach before and after enactment of new regulations. 10 childcare centers licensed in East Baton Rouge Parish will be randomly selected and standardized behavioral observation scales will be used to objectively quantify the physical activity and screen-time environment of the centers and the children's behaviors both in and outside the center. These assessments will be collected twice during the 2-year grant period to capture potential changes after the policies are implemented.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Licensed by DOE as a Class A or Class B childcare center
• Located in East Baton Rouge Parish
• Current childcare enrollment of at least 18 children between the ages of 3-4 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Childcare center and/or childcare center director unwilling to participate