Web-based need-supportive parenting program
A web-based format was chosen for the intervention as it is scalable, enables reaching larger audiences and offers the possibility of self-paced learning for the participants. The aim of the need-supportive parenting program was to educate parents about techniques directed at promoting children’s intrinsic motivation towards out-of-school PA. The parents in the intervention group had access to a learning platform (Moodle) for the duration of the study. An invitation link was sent to participating parents assigned to the experimental group to join the online course.In the beginning of the program, the self-determination theory was introduced, emphasizing the role of basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Over the course of the intervention, parents were asked to watch three short video lectures each week. The course was self-paced, so that parents could watch the weekly videos whenever they had the time. Videos from the previous weeks were also accessible. On average, the duration of a single video was approximately 2 min. The videos covered a series of motivational and behavioural change techniques (MBCTs) that have been described by Teixeira and colleagues [Following designing and filming the preliminary educational videos, feedback was asked from a test group of parents (Following each week’s educational videos, participants were asked to complete a short multiple-choice test to ensure they understood the techniques. In addition, a forum discussion was opened weekly, where participants could share their experiences trying to put the techniques into practice when interacting with their child daily. Overview of activities in Moodle revealed that parents were moderately engaged in the program. The percentages of parents taking the tests and participating in forum discussions were 64% and 22%, respectively.