The beach as a setting for families’ health promotion: A qualitative study with parents and children living in coastal regions in Southwest England

摘要: This study explores the neglected issue of how families engage with beach environments in their local areas and use them health promoting ways. Fifteen children aged 8–11 years living coastal regions Southwest England participated individual semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that beaches encouraged to be physically active. Although valued opportunities for physical activity active play afforded by beaches, key benefits emphasised were psychological, including experiencing fun, stress relief engagement nature. Increased social family interaction was also highlighted as benefits. Despite perceiving benefits, not all regularly visited beach. Barriers visits included parents having limited time, cost parking, lack car access cold weather. Parents played a role enabling choosing share these children. dimension make regular trips. support promote families’ wellbeing positive relationships