Eine Perspektive von Grundschulkindern auf Bedingungsfaktoren der aktiven und eigenständigen Mobilität – eine qualitative Studie

Only a few children achieve the WHO physical activity recommendations. The promotion of non-organized physical activity, such as active and independent mobility is a relevant starting point for interventions to promote physical activity in primary school children. The aim of the present study was to identify hindering and facilitating factors for independent and active mobility on the way to school in order to guide the development of interventions. Within the scope of the study, twelve elementary school children aged eight to ten years were qualitatively interviewed about their way to school using the photovoice method. Based on the socio-ecological model, individual, social and physical environmental factors were extracted from the data. In particular, parental permission, a lack of bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and inconsiderate motorized road users hinder children from actively and independently traveling to school. The study identified a variety of factors at different socio-ecological levels that should be considered in intervention programs to promote active and independent travel to school. In addition, suggestions made by the primary school children for improvements to enable an active and independent way to school should be critically reflected and taken into account in urban planning and development in order to provide child-friendly environments.