Grant: CIHR New Investigator

The early years (under 5 years) mark the most critical period of overall development throughout the human lifespan. Regular physical activity and minimal sedentary behaviour (e.g., TV viewing) in the early years are important for healthy growth and development, and for preventing chronic diseases. However, 75% of Canadian children in the early years do not meet national guidelines for both behaviours. Evidence is needed on the most important intervention targets and strategies unique to this age group in relevant settings (home, child care, neighbourhood). Such evidence will support achievement of appropriate doses of regular physical activity and minimal sedentary behaviour. The overarching goal of my research program is to effectively promote healthy habits of regular physical activity and minimal sedentary behaviour among children of the early years. Achieving this goal will foster healthy growth and development, life-long active living, and the maintenance of a healthy weight status to prevent chronic diseases. Over the next five years I will address three main research questions in parallel. Answers to these questions will provide the necessary foundation to address my overarching goal. Research Question One: What are the dose-response relationships between physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and important health indicators in the early years? Research Question Two: What are the determinants of physical activity and sedentary behaviour that are unique to the early years in the home and neighbourhood settings? Research Question Three: What role does child care policy play in promoting regular physical activity and minimal sedentary behaviour in the early years? I will conduct several innovative research projects to address these questions. The combined outcomes of my research program will provide practice and policy evidence that can be directly applied by stakeholders to ensure a healthy start for our youngest Canadians.