Effects of Different Multi-Year Physical Exercise Programs on Motor Skills in Preschool Children.

Kristian Plazibat,Tihomir Vidranski,Josip Karuc

doi:10.3390/jfmk6030074

Abstract

Acquiring optimal motor skills in preschool children presents a key element for proper psychomotor development. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine gender differences and the effects of a multi-year exercise program on the level of motor skills in 161 preschool children (5–6 yo). Participants were divided into one control and three experimental groups. Motor skills were assessed with the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2). To determine the difference in scores for each BOT-2 test between control and experimental groups, one-way ANOVA was used for girls and boys separately, while two-way ANOVA was used to determine the difference between the genders in the overall BOT-2 score. The results indicate that a 1-year multilateral exercise program has a positive effect on the level of motor skills in preschool children. Interestingly, additional years of participation in exercise programs yielded the maintenance of acquired motor skills level. Additionally, the exercise program affected preschool girls more than boys considering both individual and composite BOT-2 scores. According to the findings of this study, the presented exercise program could have potential benefits on multilateral development of the motor skills in preschool children, which could facilitate the balance of locomotor and manipulative skills. Therefore, the integration of multilateral programs intended for preschool children could be considered for implementation within the kindergarten curriculum.

Highlights

Childhood presents a sensible period for cognitive, emotional and motor development [1]
Evidence shows that the development of fundamental movement skills (FMS) in preschool children represents a key factor for optimal development of motor coordination, motor control and balance [3]
According to the results of our study, authors support that preschool children take up regular exercises with the multilaterally directed exercise program as covered within this study

Summary

Introduction

Childhood presents a sensible period for cognitive, emotional and motor development [1]. Considering the emotional, psychological, social and motor aspects of children from an early age is of essential importance. Consistent physical exercise and play in childhood are considered as key components for establishing optimal growth, healthy habits, cognitive and motor skills [2]. Evidence shows that the development of fundamental movement skills (FMS) in preschool children represents a key factor for optimal development of motor coordination, motor control and balance [3]. FMS such as running, jumping, kicking, throwing and catching serve as a ‘fundamental pillar’ for success in cognitive [5], physical and sport skills [6]. The development of FMS through early childhood should be emphasized in formal and informal education

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