Parent-Perceived Changes in Active Transportation and Independent Mobility among Canadian Children in Relation to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Results from Two National Surveys

Abstract

Children’s active transportation (AT) and independent mobility (IM) can provide benefits for health and social development. Using data from two national surveys, we assessed parent-perceived changes in AT and IM among 5-to 17-year-oldsin Canada since the outbreak of COVID-19. About half of parents reported no changes, but two to three times more parents reported declines compared to increases in AT and IM. We explored many potential correlates of changes in AT and IM. Changes in IM were the strongest correlate of changes in AT. Strategies to minimize unintended negative impacts on children’s physical activity from policies to prevent infectious disease transmission should be developed.