Project 467204

When thinking about favourite childhood play experiences, many individuals think of activities done outdoors; this might involve climbing trees, playground games, or biking around the neighbourhood unsupervised with friends. However, a recent phenomenon of ;bubble-wrapping has emerged, in which parents have become increasingly anxious about their childs safety. As a result, those with a lower Parental Tolerance of Risk (PToR) tend to limit their childs ability to engage in risky outdoor play and therefore, reach recommended physical activity (PA) levels. PA provides numerous benefits in improving health outcomes and fostering development of life skills in children and youth. Yet despite these benefits, most Canadian children and youth are insufficiently physically active. This study will explore how PToR serves as a barrier to PA among Canadian children. Few research studies have looked at changes in PToR over time in a longitudinal context. By analysing a national survey sample of 2,291 parents of 7 to 12-year-old children with three data collection points over two years, I will first investigate the correlates (e.g., age or gender of child; neighbourhood walkability) of PToR with the baseline cross-sectional data, before assessing changes in PToR over time, and determining the relationship between changes in PToR and childrens PA. The results of this novel study will contribute to the development of effective family-based PA interventions that seek to reframe the risk of independent mobility and outdoor play for parents, and pop the bubble wrap.