Improving sport opportunities, participation, and experiences for children in out-of-home care: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Background: Participation in sport is associated with a range of physical, psychological, and social benefits. However, children in out-of-home care face complex barriers to sport participation, with lower participation rates than children in other household arrangements.

Objective: We aimed to establish carers' recommendations for improving children in care's participation and experiences in sport.

Participants and setting: Overall, 42 foster and kinship carers in Western Australia participated in the study. Data were collected via online surveys and interviews.

Methods: We conducted a sequential explanatory mixed-methods study, utilising both quantitative and qualitative methods.

Results: Analyses revealed three key recommendations-with accompanying implementation strategies-for policymakers, researchers, peak sporting bodies, and sporting organisations: (1) inclusive practices should be embedded in existing sport programs; (2) education for sport program providers should be developed; and (3) support for carers to facilitate sport participation for children in care should be provided.

Conclusions: This work provides guidance for increasing participation in sport for children in care, and maximising opportunities for physical, psychological, and social development.

Keywords: Adolescents; Foster care; Participatory research; Physical activity; Youth.