Promoting Physical Activity among Low-Income Children in Colorado: Family Perspectives on Barriers and Opportunities

In this study of low-income families throughout Colorado, we learned that the majority of children are participating in some organized physical activities, and that most parents understand and value the benefits of regular physical activity for their children’s health and well-being. Parents identified a wide range of challenges that prevent their child from being physically active—such as the cost and availability of activities, difficulty scheduling activities or free play within work and family commitments, and concern for their children’s safety. Despite these challenges, many parents continue to try hard to identify opportunities for physical activity and had a wide range of recommendations for how communities could support their efforts.