Developing and Disseminating Physical Activity Messages Targeting Parents: A Systematic Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) messages have demonstrated success in targeting parent support for PA. However, little research exists to inform the development and dissemination of optimally effective PA messages targeting parents. A synthesis of existing literature is necessary to inform message development and dissemination strategies. Unique considerations for parents of children with disabilities (CWD) should be identified given a need for inclusive PA messaging that consider the needs of CWD and their families. Methods: Systematic scoping methodologies included a peer-reviewed literature search and expert consultation to identify literature regarding PA messages targeting parents, and considerations for parents of CWD. Results: Thirty-four articles that met eligibility criteria were included for examination. Twenty-eight studies were identified regarding the PA messages targeting parents; six themes and 12 subthemes emerged from these articles. Six studies were identified regarding unique considerations for parents of CWD; three themes and four subthemes emerged from these articles. Conclusions: Through knowledge synthesis, this research can contribute to a knowledge translation process to inform practice guidelines for the development and dissemination of PA messages targeting parents, while also providing unique considerations for PA messages targeting parents of CWD.

Parents’ User Experience Accessing and Using a Web-Based Map of COVID-19 Recommendations for Health Decision-Making: Qualitative Descriptive Study

“…It has been previously reported that dissemination strategies appropriate for parents include targeting credible sources such as community centers, public health institutions, schools, physicians, and government agencies [ 41 ]. This is comparable to our findings, where parents suggested targeting schools, health clinics, and collaborating with credible and trusted organizations and individuals to increase the RecMap website’s awareness.…”

Evidence-Informed Recommendations for Community-Based Organizations Developing Physical Activity Information Targeting Families of Children and Youth With Disabilities

“…The research team then used systematic methods to identify evidence to inform the recommendations. Specifically, a systematic scoping review (Larocca et al, 2021) was conducted to identify research regarding the development of PA information targeting families, including families of CYD. Twenty-eight studies were identified regarding PA information targeting families in general, and six studies were identified regarding families of CYD.…”

“…A strength of this overarching project is that the recommendations were developed based on the best existing evidence regarding effective PA messaging strategies and the PA information needs of families of CYD (Larocca et al, 2021). The evidence-based, rigorous, and transparent development process (i.e., AGREE II approach; Brouwers et al, 2010) ensures that when implemented, the recommendations should be optimally effective at meeting the PA information needs of families and, ultimately, enhance support for PA and facilitate PA among CYD.…”

“…Researchers have also evaluated optimization of online PA information targeting families of CYD (Natkunam et al, 2020), explored strategies for optimal PA information access (Jaarsma et al, 2019), and identified key theoretical constructs to target in developing effective PA information for families of CYD (Bassett-Gunter et al, 2020). This literature has been summarized in a systematic scoping review (Larocca et al, 2021).…”

“…Although this increased research focus on effective strategies for developing targeted PA information for families of CYD is encouraging, there is a need to strategically mobilize this knowledge to CBOs that promote PA and have opportunities to communicate with families of CYD. Filling this gap is critical given that families of CYD search for PA information from credible and reliable CBOs (Bassett-Gunter et al, 2017;Jaarsma et al, 2019;Larocca et al, 2021;Natkunam et al, 2020;Smith & Wightman, 2021). Unfortunately, many CBOs lack the knowledge, skills, and direction required to develop and disseminate PA information that meets the needs of families of CYD (Bassett-Gunter et al, 2019;Martin Ginis et al, 2016).…”