The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on child and adolescent active play in Argentina

Abstract

Child and adolescent overweight and obesity are a multifactorial pandemic social problem; however, there is consensus on its link with a higher caloric intake than expenditure. In this context, it is relevant to analyze the propensity to insufficient physical activity in childhood, and in particular the effects of COVID-19 lockdown on active play. A comparative analysis of the deficit of active play at a prepandemic time and in the period of exit from the strictest isolation in Argentina (2018; 2020) was conducted with 5479 and 3964 observations, respectively, of children between five and 17 years old. The measurements correspond to the Argentine Social Debt Survey (EDSA for its acronym in Spanish) on a national probability sample. First, a descriptive statistical analysis was performed, followed by a multivariate analysis based on logistic regressions. Active play decreased more among females than males as age and socioeconomic status rose. This decline was prominent among those with less physically active parents, a preference for sedentary screen time, and a lower inclination for structured physical activities. Lockdown measures, particularly in working-class neighbourhoods, appeared to shield children's active play. The pandemic and its restrictions harmed children's well-being through diminished play opportunities, affecting their physical, motor, psychological, and social health. Play is widely recognized as a vital bridge between physical activity and energy expenditure. It notably addresses the rising concern of childhood overweight and obesity. Thus, active play becomes a crucial behavior to promote in all circumstances, aligned with a comprehensive health perspective. Keywords: active play, childhood and adolescence, integral health, obesity, COVID-19