Abstract

Introduction and objective:  The problem of sedentary lifestyle in childhood is a public health issue, which has been aggravated by the health situation derived from confinement due to COVID-19, so understanding the changes in physical activity during this period in Salvadoran children is important.

Methods:  The methodology of the study was qualitative, with an intentional sample, made up of 5 boys and 6 girls between 7 and 10 years old from a private school in the Salvadoran capital. The techniques and instruments were the focused interview, with a questionnaire of open questions. The information was analyzed with the triangulation method, using the interpersonal, intrapersonal and organizational level analysis categories.

Results:  The findings showed the infants’ perception of decreased physical activity, evidencing the lack of parental support for active behaviors, which contributed to feelings of loneliness.

Conclusions:  The study concludes that social interaction was reduced to family contact, accompanied by the unlimited use of technologies, causing perceptions of isolation and loneliness. Obviously, this study has shown the effect of confinement on the physical and mental health of the participants.

Keywords: COVID-19; childhood; physical activity; physical education; quality of life