Early years professionals’ perceptions and practices of motor skill development, physical activity and healthy eating

Abstract

This study presents the perceptions and practices of fundamental movement skills (FMS), healthy eating habits and physical activity (PA) in early years professionals (EYP). An online mixed-method survey comprising questions relating to practices of FMS, healthy eating habits and PA was completed by 137 EYPs (128 females). Frequency analysis assessed and reported responses to fixed-response questions, and thematic analysis was used for open-ended questions. Results indicated that EYPs understood FMS and were compliant with national guidelines in relation to PA and healthy eating. However, EYPs identified considerable barriers to developing FMS, PA and healthy eating in preschoolers.