Playtime prescription: new study tests if parent-led activity boosts health in kids with heart conditions

NCT ID NCT04619745

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a 6-month, parent-led physical activity program at home helps young children (ages 3 months to 6 years) born with heart defects get the recommended 180 minutes of daily activity after heart surgery or catheterization. The study enrolled 43 children and focused on whether it's possible to recruit families, collect data, and deliver the program. It's a first step toward a larger trial to see if this approach really improves motor skills and activity levels.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Individualized home and play-based physical activity plans

What this could lead to

If successful, this could pave the way for a larger trial that helps children with heart defects stay active and healthy.

What could go wrong

This is a small feasibility study with only 43 participants, so results may not apply to all children. The program may not increase activity levels as hoped.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

congenital heart disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario

    Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada