Perspectives of WIC Staff Regarding Physical Activity Levels and Behaviors of Latino Preschool Children

Background: Racial and ethnic disparities in physical activity (PA) are evident, with non-Hispanic Black and

Mexican American children engaging in less vigorous activity than non-Hispanic White children. Collaborating with public

health programs serving at-risk populations, such as the WIC program may be an effective way to promote the

development of healthful PA behaviors among low-income preschool children and families. This paper explores WIC

staff perceptions, attitudes, barriers, and facilitators related to PA levels and behaviors among low-income Latino

preschool children and families, as well as the role the WIC program may play in promoting PA among low-income

populations.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with a sample of WIC staff in the State of Rhode Island (RI), Northeast

United States. Individual, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 21 WIC staff working directly with Latino

clients enrolled in the WIC program. Thematic content analysis was used.

Results: The majority of WIC staff reported their Latino clients facing many barriers that limit their ability to be physically

active, including busy and multiple shift schedules, lack of access to safe outdoor spaces, financial constraints to

attending programs and recreational facilities, lack of transportation getting to safe outdoor spaces and facilities, etc.

WIC staff identified several ways that the WIC program could increase the promotion PA among Latino families including

partnering with local organizations such as the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club to provide increased access and

opportunities for PA among low-income, Latino families.

Conclusions: Study findings add to the existing literature suggesting that the WIC program is an important venue for

educating low-income, Latino children and families about the importance of establishing early healthy PA habits within

the context of overall health and development. Findings also highlight the need for a continuing effort to integrate the

promotion of PA as part of the WIC program. In addition, findings highlight WIC staff desire for additional training and

resources in promotion of PA.