Table 4 Development of MoveMEY: key findings on the content from carers and researchers

Initial tool was relevant and covered most of the ‘basic’ activities that children of this age engage in.

Initial tool thought to be relevant, provided an adequate reflection of the movement behaviours of this age group, and appropriately targeted the guidelines.

Locations of physical activity /active play, rather than specific activities.

Locations of physical activity /active play, rather than specific activities.

Distinguish between different types of seated travel (e.g., separate spaces for travelling in car, on the bus).

Separate seated travel question to distinguish between different types of seated travel and to appropriately capture guidelines.

Space to add some additional activities.

Additional activities to be added: ‘scooter’ (for leisure and active travel), soft play and puzzles. ‘Bath time’, ‘sitting whilst eating’ and ‘sitting whilst on the potty’ should be added, to ensure that these seated behaviours were captured.

Term ‘sweating’ not a word parents would use in relation to their pre-school child.

‘Out of breath’ or ‘breathe harder’ may be more relevant alternatives to the term ‘sweat’ for this age group.

Space to report ‘general information’ such as illness, sleep problems or disabilities.

Space to report ‘general information’ such as illness and sleep problems.

Children sometimes use screens before bed so unsure on sleep time.

Screen time before bed may be important additional factor to capture.

Question on bed/wake time consistency- space to explain why differences may be present on certain days.

Question on bed/wake time consistency - space to explain why differences may be present on certain days.

Allow space for active travel versus walking/cycling for leisure.

Space for ‘additional comments’ to help put the responses into context.

Specific activities for sedentary behaviour and screen time

Report ‘0’ if activity didn’t happen

Add lay definitions of the behaviours to be captured