'He wants to play football but not available here … ' Parent perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child physical activity and sport participation

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have higher physical activity participation levels than non-Aboriginal children. However, this trend reverses in adulthood. Data came from the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC) at age 8-13 years. Using conventional content analysis, interviews with primary caregivers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were analyzed to understand current sports and physical activity participation, what children would like to do, and associated barriers. Sport (individual and team) and play were identified as important; with football and water sports most frequently mentioned as activities that children enjoy. Dancing was frequently mentioned as an activity that children enjoy and would like to participate in & mldr; These findings identify preferences for physical activity and sports participation, including activities that have cultural significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in addition to exercise. These activities can act as mediums for family, kinship, community and cultural connection.