Mothers' Perspectives on Physical Activity Co‐Participation With Young Children: Examining Thoughts and Racial Differences

Background While mothers have an important role in shaping their children's physical activity (PA) behaviours, their participation in PA with their young child is limited. This study aimed to understand mothers' perceptions of co‐participation of PA (co‐PA) with their young child and compared these perceptions between White and Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC) mothers. Methods Thirty mothers (White: n = 14; BIPOC: n = 16) with a 2‐to‐5‐year‐old child were interviewed about their current co‐PA interactions with their child. A thematic analysis approach was used to determine themes and subthemes for all mothers and by racial category. Results Co‐PA was important within a technological society as it allowed for bonding time, educational opportunities and healthier lifestyles. Mothers' thoughts about co‐PA before the activity were negative, but positive afterwards. A unique barrier was adapting to the child's age and mood. Mothers also noted the availability of places to be active as a barrier and facilitator. A novel theme discussed by the mothers was the social aspect that co‐PA provided. A few differences in the importance of subthemes emerged between the racial categories. White mothers, more often described co‐PA as providing learning opportunities, whereas BIPOC mothers often said co‐PA allowed them to model that PA was important to do. Regarding co‐PA barriers, White mothers noted distractions due to screens, whereas BIPOC mothers mentioned inadequate resources. Finally, regarding the social aspects of co‐PA, more BIPOC mothers highlighted the importance of co‐PA for motivating others to be active. Conclusion Overall, the perceptions regarding co‐PA in this diverse group of mothers were similar; however, some key differences in the importance of co‐PA existed between White and BIPOC mothers. Co‐PA's social aspect and the differences between racial groups should be considered when aligning interventions to fit the needs and preferences of subgroups of mothers to improve co‐PA.