Table 2 Theme names and definitions

1) Residual lockdown habits

This theme describes the continuation of habits formed during prolonged periods spent within the home under COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. Time spent within the home was suggested to reflect the lifestyle of lockdown, with activities centred around sedentary screen-viewing behaviours. Despite the easing of restrictions, activities outside the home felt intentional and a subsequent reduction in spontaneous physical activity was evoked in the data. Poor diet and sleeping patterns, and their negative effect on physical activity, were also described as habits of lockdown that were apparent a year following the COVID-19 lockdowns.

2) Interrupted skill development

The impact of missed developmental experiences among children due to the lockdowns and restrictions was suggested in the data. Facets of this theme included interrupted social, emotional, and physical skills, each of which created challenges to physical activity.

3) Post-lockdown mental health challenges and physical activity

This theme illustrates a perceived lasting impact of the pandemic on the mental health of parents and children. An increased requirement of mental health support in schools for children and their families was suggested in the data. These challenges to mental health among parents and children were thought to create significant difficulties with regards to being active and encouraged sedentary habits within the home.

4) New physical activity normal

The pandemic was perceived to have had a lasting impact on the activity patterns of children. Due to increased screen-viewing at home, reduced spontaneous activities outside the home, and lasting organisation-level rules and restrictions, the opportunities for spontaneous physical activity have decreased. Subsequently, physical activities that are structured and organised, such as active clubs, were suggested as the primary way in which children are now active.

5) Disproportionate impact on girls and children from lower socio-economic groups

This theme highlights a differential impact among two groups: girls and children with lower socio-economic position. These groups may be at risk of lower physical activity in the wake of the pandemic, despite an average return to pre-pandemic levels within the overall Active-6 study. They may also experience complex, multi-faceted barriers that might create challenges to physical activity, especially attending organised and structured activities, such as active clubs, which have become the new normal of child physical activity.