Introduction of Lifestyle Intervention survey and implementation of a state-of-the-art student tracking system through baseline BLOC test, marking a groundbreaking leap in revolutionizing child's development
St. Maarten, January 22, 2024
By Ria Uiterloo
On Monday, January 29, the Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten will unveil a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing the approach to child development. The launch involves the implementation of a new student tracking system through the BLOC test and the commencement of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention survey. This ambitious project is made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Stichting Expertise Centrum Ervaringsgericht Onderwijs (Stichting EGO) as part of their Project Healthy Schools and Communities, subsidized by Resouces for Community Resilience (R4CR).
The Sr. Regina School has been selected to participate in this transformative project, which extends beyond mere data collection and lifestyle intervention surveys. Mr. Juriaan Otto, the project coordinator for Stichting EGO, spearheaded collaborations with various institutions in the Netherlands, securing funding for a baseline study and life intervention survey. Recognizing the opportunity to expand the baseline study on the physical health of children, all primary Catholic schools have been enlisted for substantial data collection.
The developmental trajectory of children on St. Maarten is of paramount importance for both the Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten and Stichting EGO. Their joint mission is to create an environment where students not only excel academically but also thrive socially and emotionally. In light of global concerns about the motor development of children, exacerbated by screen time and a lack of physical activity, the initiative aims to address issues such as motor skill deficiencies, physical coordination impairments, and mental health challenges.
The initiative comprises two collaborative studies with the University of Arnhem and Nijmegen and the Mulier Institute in the Netherlands.
BLOC Test:
In partnership with the Hogeschool van Arnhem en Nijmegen, the Foundation introduces the BLOC test as a valuable tool for monitoring and promoting the motor development of students. This student tracking system conducts structured annual testing on four essential motor components. The BLOC test enables targeted interventions based on individual needs, allowing for personalized attention to students below average and challenging those above average to further develop their motor skills.
Lifestyle Intervention Survey:
Developed by the Mulier Institute, the Lifestyle Intervention Survey for St. Maarten focuses on aspects of daily life such as exercise, screen time, diet, sleep, and more. The data collected will inform targeted policies to enhance the health and well-being of students.
Testing Period:
The testing period is scheduled from January 29 to February 9, 2024, conducted at all primary schools of the Foundation Catholic Schools St. Maarten. The BLOC test will be administered by students at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and others. The lifestyle intervention survey will be conducted online throughout the testing period.
This initiative extends its impact to Statia, Saba, and Bonaire, enabling the comparison of data across the region. Stakeholder collaboration and the development of programs to improve the overall health of children are integral to this broader vision. Articles on the Foundation’s blog, Facebook sites of the Catholic schools on St. Maarten and on the Facebook site of Stichting EGO Afterschool Programs Expertise and Community projects will underscore the significance of play and increased physical activity during and after school hours.