Leisure-time physical activity behavior in children with and without disabilities

Abstract Background During leisure-time, children can engage in physical activity (PA) through structured (e.g., sports clubs) and unstructured (e.g., active play) activities, with both types being essential for their physical, social, and cognitive development. Based on socioecological models, PA behavior is associated with various factors at different levels. In particular, the environment and societal structures have undergone changes in recent decades, such as increased screen time, urbanization, and family structures. Therefore, the present study aims to analyze leisure-time PA behavior among elementary school children (with and without disabilities), while considering individual, social, and environmental factors as potential predictors. Methods PLAYABLE is a cross-sectional study conducted in Germany using an online survey targeting at elementary school children and their parents. Structured and unstructured PA behaviors (including screen time and non-exercise leisure-time behaviors like music or art-related classes), social and physical environmental factors, and demographic characteristics are self-reported. Additionally, geographic information system (GIS) data are used to objectively assess neighborhood-level environmental factors. A nationwide sample of approximately 1200 children, including 200 with disabilities, and their parents, are recruited through Forsa’s nationwide online panel. Analyses will include descriptive statistics, linear and binary logistic regression models, and cluster analyses, with the latter applied to uncover characteristic patterns of children’s leisure-time behavior. Results The study will provide insights into leisure-time PA behavior of children with and without disabilities and enables comparisons between children with and without disabilities. It will highlight key environmental and social predictors of PA participation and contributes to evidence-based recommendations for promoting active lifestyles. Conclusion Understanding leisure-time PA behaviors and their predictors is essential for developing interventions that support active lifestyles for all children. The PLAYABLE study provides valuable data to inform public health policies and urban planning strategies that enhance PA opportunities, particularly for children with and without disabilities.