Social Competence In Preschool Children Research Articles

Effects of Physical Education on Preschool Children’s Physical Activity Levels and Motor, Cognitive, and Social Competences: A Systematic Review

The aim of this review was to systematically summarize the literature about physical education (PE) programs and their effects on preschool children’s physical activity levels and motor, cognitive, and social competences. A systematic search of relevant articles was carried out using four electronic databases up until February 16, 2022. The main findings were that the inclusion of PE in early childhood is a suitable alternative for improving development in three main areas. For motor competence, specific fundamental motor skill programs are a key opportunity to improve preschool children’s ability. Physical activity levels may be improved considering structured and regular PE programs (two to three classes per week). Regarding cognitive competence, PE classes are effective for improving creativity, attention, and mental abilities, and also, for reducing the symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Finally, group-based activities are the most suitable alternative for boosting social competence in preschool children with or without motor disabilities. Improving these competences and physical activity levels in preschool is necessary for the children’s health and holistic development; the educators’ daily decisions have key importance.

A social-competence group intervention featuring didactic teaching and practice in play contexts for preschool children with autism spectrum disorders

BackgroundRelatively few intervention programs of social competence have been specifically designed for preschool children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigated the effectiveness of the social-competence group intervention (SCGI), which features a combination of didactic teaching and practice in play contexts for preschool children with ASD. MethodsA single-blind design was used with 34 preschool children with ASD, who were randomly allocated to either the SCGI group (n = 17) or the control group (n = 16). The SCGI group received 16 weekly group-based sessions with specific social topics, while the control group participated in their regular occupational therapy. Outcomes included measures of children’s social competence, children’s adaptive behaviors, and caregivers’ parental stress. ResultsA total of 25 children (12 in the SCGI and 13 in the control groups) completed the intervention and the pre- and post-intervention assessments. Compared with the control group, children in the SCGI group showed significantly greater enhancement of social competence (all p < .05, effect size η2 = 0.26–0.41). Additionally, caregivers’ parental stress decreased in the SCGI group but not in the control group (p < .05, effect size η2 = 0.25) after the intervention. However, the two groups did not show significant differences in adaptive behaviors (p = .06–.94). ConclusionsThe SCGI was effective in improving children’s social competence and reducing caregivers’ parental stress in preschool children with ASD. This RCT provides evidence of the effectiveness of the SCGI and guidance for clinicians to improve the social competence of preschool children with ASD.

Digital Game Addiction Tendency and Social Competence in Preschool Children: The Mediating Role of Self-Regulation

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between digital game addiction tendency and social competence in preschool children and the mediating role of self-regulation skills in this relationship. The sample included 310 preschool children aged 4-6 years (150 girls and 160 boys) studying in three kindergartens in the city center of Aydın. Digital Game Addiction Tendency Scale, Self-Regulation Skills Scale for 4–6-Year-Old Children (Mother Form), Social Competence and Behavior Evaluation-30 Scale - Social Competence Subscale, and Personal Information Form were used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data. The results of the Pearson product-moment correlation analysis showed that digital game addiction tendency was negatively correlated with self-regulation skills and social competence in preschool children. Moreover, the results indicated that there was a positive association between self-regulation skills and social competence in preschool children. The results of the structural equation model analysis revealed that digital game addiction tendency was directly related to self-regulation skills and indirectly related to social competence. Self-regulation skills have a full mediating role in the relationship between digital game addiction tendency and social competence. The research revealed the negative effects of digital game addiction on self-regulation skills which in turn affects social competence in preschool children. The results suggest that the effects of digital game addiction and self-regulation skills should be considered when assessing the social skills of preschool children.

Instruments measuring emotional-social competence in preschoolers in South Africa: A review study

South African children still enter mainstream education with their emotional and social well-being compromised. Therefore, an awareness of and emphasis on emotional social competencies as a domain of school readiness is essential. This review aimed to identify and describe instruments measuring emotional and social competency as a domain of school readiness in preschoolers and report on their psychometric properties. The study utilised a systematic review design. Peer-reviewed articles that met the inclusion criteria were identified from six literature databases using Boolean phrases. Grey literature was also considered. The title search yielded 3872 articles. Fifty-four articles were screened based on the abstract. From among these, four articles met the minimum threshold of 80% in the appraisal phase, proceeded to data extraction and were subjected to thematic synthesis in the summation phase. The Emotional Social Screening Tool for School Readiness (E3SR), the Emotional Competence for Screening for Preschoolers (SCE), the Social Competence for Screening for Preschoolers (SCS), the Preschool Behavioural and Emotional Rating Scale (PreBERS) and the School Readiness Screening Instrument for Grade 00 (pre–grade R) were identified as instruments that measure domains of emotional social competence in preschool children. The instruments displayed good psychometric characteristics. The E3SR and the School Readiness Screening Instrument for Grade 00 were locally constructed and deemed contextually appropriate for use in the South African context. The need for locally developed, standardised, cost-effective measures to supplement assessment in the educational environment remains a focus for further research.Contribution: This review contributed to the body of knowledge related to contextually appropriate, psychometrically sound, accessible and affordable screenings available to schools and parents to assess emotional and social competencies in preschoolers in South Africa.

The Effects of Microsocial Factors Through the Family on the Development of Social Competence in Preschool Children

This paper investigates how sociodemographic factors and the family background contribute to the development of children’s social competence. Social competence is interpreted within an integrative approach, being analysed according to two indicators: the development level of social skills and interpersonal coping forms of children. The present article focused on negotiation, which has been found to be the most adaptive coping among preschool age children. Measurements were obtained using questionnaires: a Social Competence Screening about Preschoolers filled in by teachers, a Questionnaire on Coping Strategies completed both from children and teachers, and a Family Background Questionnaire compiled only for parents. Data was collected for a total of 536 preschoolers, of whom 309 parents provided data about home environment. In the linear regression models conducted the most influential demographic factors were the age and gender of the children and the age of the parents. Microsocial factors as the parents’, in particular the mother’s, employment was determinate in the models, and other sociocultural aspects, as the child’s participation in extracurricular activities beside short screentime, the lack of conflicts and disease in family, marital satisfaction are among influencing factors. The study offers various prospects for new research and nuances our views on social competence and child-development.

The correlation between family microculture and social competence of preschool children

The correlation between family microculture and social competence of preschool children

THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF THE FORMATION OF SOCIAL COMPETENCE OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

This article discusses the theoretical content of the formation of social competence of preschool children. The role of the preschool organization in creating all conditions for the child to realize their personal capabilities, to help identify and reveal their individuality is determined. In pre-school organizations, promoting the formation of a unique personality in the process of education and upbringing, special attention is paid to creating conditions for the adaptation of each child to the social environment and the organization of education. As a result of the theoretical analysis of the concept of "social competence",the author notes that an important task of preschool education is to develop a new meaningful methodologythat allows the child to actively integrate and adapt in the social environment and become a socially competent person in the future

The Development of Social Competence in Preschoolers with Disabilities as the Condition for Their Successful Educational Integration

The article presents the results of a theoretical and experimental study of an age-related psychological formation - social competence in preschool children with disabilities. The characteristic of diagnostic tools aims at studying the cognitive, emotional and behavioral component of social competence is given. The article reveals the conceptual foundations and stages of experimental research. At the first stage of the study, the levels of social competence formation have been identified and described in accordance with the identified assessment criteria. The analysis of the influence of the level of development of social competence components on the process of social adaptation to new conditions in special (correctional) and inclusive educational organizations has been presented. The experimental data presented in the study indicate systemic lack of social competence in preschool children with disabilities of various nosological groups (children with mental retardation, children with mild mental retardation, children with general speech underdevelopment, and children with visual impairments). At the second stage of the study, it has been indicated that the pedagogically organized inclusion of children with disabilities into the system of new social relations (at the stage of adaptation to school) is a key condition for their successful socialization. The necessity of the activation of their developmental capabilities in a changing situation of social development has been substantiated. It is proved that the social competence of children with disabilities will be the subjective prerequisite of school adaptation.

Methodological rigour and coherence in the construction of instruments: The emotional social screening tool for school readiness

The need for a contextually relevant and empirically grounded measure of emotional social competence in Grade R children was identified in the literature. The aim of this study was to develop a contextually relevant instrument for emotional social competence in preschool children. The study adopted a four-phase approach with each phase using distinct methodological approaches. This article reports on the use of multiple research methods to achieve methodological rigour and coherence in the construction. Phase 1 used systematic review methodology to establish a theoretical foundation for the instrument. The results identified two domains and nine subdomains that formed the theoretical model for the instrument. In phase 2 stakeholder perceptions of emotional and social competence were identified through concept mapping to increase contextual relevance and sensitivity. The results highlighted that early stimulation and contextual factors impacted school readiness and needed to be included. The construction of the instrument incorporated the findings from the first two stages. The draft instrument was presented to a panel of experts, using the Delphi technique, for validation of content and scalar decisions in phase 3. The results supported the proposed format and content of the screening tool. The resulting instrument was piloted in phase 4 with survey research. Good internal consistency was reported and the factor structure supported. The multiphase methodology provided an overarching framework with methodological rigour and coherence. The grounding in the literature, stakeholder consultation and rigorous validation processes enhanced the resultant instrument. The articulation of one phase into the next ensured methodological coherence.

THEORETICAL ASPECT OF FORMATION OF SOCIAL COMPETENCE IN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS OF PRESCHOOL AGE CHILDREN WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

Abstract. Formation of a socially competent person with intellectual disabilities is a priority in modern educational activities, but lack of theoretical and practical achievements in this sphere determines relevance of the study. The purpose of the article is to provide an analysis of the theoretical aspect of formation of social competence in the educational programs of preschool age children with intellectual disabilities. Methods used: analysis, synthesis and generalization were used. The article devotes special attention to the analysis of programs for development of preschool age children with mental development disorders. It has been found out that the first program is focused mainly on providing children with comprehensive knowledge, and the second one is aimed at building basic skills and abilities. Seven sections of the «Program of development of preschool age children with mental retardation» have been analyzed through the prism of social competence formation. It is noted that this program is aimed at formation of knowledge and skills in children in general. It is stressed that the basis of the program «Formation of social skills» is the process of establishing cooperation of the child with an adult and forming of preschool children’s social experience. Three sections of correctional-developmental work are covered within this program: «I myself», «I and others», «I and environment». An analysis of development programs has shown that they are aimed at: providing preschool age children with intellectual disabilities with knowledge of the social environment and peculiarities of interaction in it; elementary acquaintance with human emotions. We have not found special programs and methodological recommendations regarding development of social competence of preschool children with intellectual disabilities.

Theory of Mind Abilities and Social Competence in Preschool Children

Abstract Background and Objective Theory of mind (ToM) is the ability that can be attributed to mental status beliefs, intents, emotions, proficiency, etc., to oneself and to others, and the understanding that others also have intentions, conceptions, desires, and perspectives that are different from one’s own. Daily social life depends on the ability to evaluate the behavior of other people on the basis of their mental state such as their beliefs, intentions, compassions, and goals. This study was conducted to explore the ToM abilities in preschoolers. Methods A total of 36 preschoolers participated in the study. Two stories were narrated to the children, the classic Sally-Anne Task and the Smarty’s Task. In both the tasks, the responses of the children were scored as either true belief or false belief. Results The results of the present study revealed mixed responses among the preschoolers. It was found that 3- to 4-year-old children had more false beliefs for both the tasks when compared with 4- to 5-year-old. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of ToM abilities in typically growing children and other clinical population. It can be concluded that the ToM abilities were improved in typically developing children. Future studies are required to explore the higher levels of embedding of ToM, and also to incorporate it in the clinical population.

Gender differences in the relationship between language and social competence in preschool children

The present study examined gender differences in the relation between language and social competence in 268 children aged 18 to 35 months. Correlational and regression analyses demonstrated that the association between expressive language and social ability was significantly stronger in boys than in girls.

Application of temperament combined with social competence in preschoolers with asthma in home care

Objective To explore the application effect of home care on the basis of temperament combined with social competence in preschool children with bronchial asthma. Methods A total of 100 preschool children outpatients with bronchial asthma who came to our hospital from January 1 to February 28, 2013 were selected with the method of convenience sampling and were randomly divided into observed group and control group with 50 cases in each group. Cases of the observed group were divided into ordinary, middle, and strengthen subgroups according to temperament and social competence.The control group and the ordinary subgroup received routine care interventions, and the other subgroups were given corresponding enhanced care measures. The attack rate of asthma, medical care, quality of life and lung function during one year follow-up were observed and compared between the two groups. Results Within the first six months of follow-up, patients in observed group got better control in acute attacks than the control group [(2.3±0.4) times vs. (3.4±0.3) times,χ2=5.710,P<0.05)]. The percentage of forced expiratory volume in the first second and Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire scores in observed group were significantly higher than the control group one years later [(86.9±4.6)% vs. (85.5±3.8)% and (90.1±7.5) vs. (76.5±8.0), P<0.05]. Conclusions The application of temperament type combined with social competence showed a good practical value in home care for asthma preschoolers. Key words: Asthma; Temperament; Child, preschool; Home care; Social competence

Associations Between Attachment Security and Social Competence in Preschool Children

Attachment theorists suggest that attachment security with parents supports the quality of social adaptation in peer groups during early childhood, and numerous studies supporting this conjecture have been published. Most of these studies used enacted representations rather than mental representations of attachment security, and most studies examining mental representations used adult (parent or teacher) ratings of peer-group adaptation. Our study tested relations between preschool children's (N = 147; age 48-69 months) mental representations of attachment by using the Attachment Story Completion Task and child-level indicators of social competence based on direct observations and sociometric interviews. General intelligence tests were administered to control for effects of developmental level on child narrative production. Analyses revealed positive, significant associations between attachment measures and all social competence composites. Children with more secure attachment representations were more socially engaged and more likely to exhibit social, emotional, and cognitive skills that contribute to peer acceptance. Results support the hypothesis that attachment security is a foundational support for peer social competence.

Associations Between Attachment Security and Social Competence in Preschool Children

Attachment theorists suggest that attachment security with parents supports the quality of social adaptation in peer groups during early childhood, and numerous studies supporting this conjecture have been published. Most of these studies used enacted representations rather than mental representations of attachment security, and most studies examining mental representations used adult (parent or teacher) ratings of peer-group adaptation. Our study tested relations between preschool children's ( N = 147; age 48-69 months) mental representations of attachment by using the Attachment Story Completion Task and child-level indicators of social competence based on direct observations and sociometric interviews. General intelligence tests were administered to control for effects of developmental level on child narrative production. Analyses revealed positive, significant associations between attachment measures and all social competence composites. Children with more secure attachment representations were more socially engaged and more likely to exhibit social, emotional, and cognitive skills that contribute to peer acceptance. Results support the hypothesis that attachment security is a foundational support for peer social competence.

Social competence of preschool children born very preterm

BackgroundRelatively little is known about the early social development of children born very preterm despite clear suggestions of later interpersonal difficulties. AimsTo compare the social competence of very preterm (VPT) and full term (FT) born children at age 4 and identify infant, social and family factors associated with later risk. Study designProspective longitudinal study. SubjectsA regionally representative cohort of 103 VPT (≤32weeks gestation) children and a comparison group of 105 FT children (36–41weeks gestation) born between 1998 and 2000. Outcome measuresAt corrected age 4years, a range of parent report, observational and laboratory measures assessed children's emotional and behavioral adjustment, emotional regulation, social interactive behavior and theory of mind understanding. Extensive perinatal, social background and family functioning data were also available from birth to age 4. ResultsCompared to their FT peers, VPT born children had poorer emotional and behavioral adjustment, were less effective in regulating their emotions, had lower levels of positive peer play and had less synchronous interactions with their parents. Within the VPT group, predictors of poor social competence included family socioeconomic disadvantage, extreme prematurity, severity of cerebral white matter abnormalities and early childhood exposure to high levels of maternal anxiety and negative parenting. ConclusionsVPT pre-schoolers are characterized by a range of subtle social difficulties likely to adversely affect their ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with others. These difficulties need to be monitored alongside other potential neurodevelopmental concerns and parents supported to actively nurture child social competence.

Fostering Social Competence in Preschool Children Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence: Evaluating the Preschool Kids' Club Intervention

This study assessed whether participation in an intervention program enhanced social competence in 113 preschool-aged children who were exposed to intimate partner violence. Change in competence was evaluated from baseline to approximately five weeks postbaseline and compared preschool children who did and did not receive intervention services. Protective factors, such as exposure to less severe violence, were identified that predicted change in competence scores. Results indicated that children with the highest social competence pre-intervention exhibited a significant increase in their postintervention scores, if they participated in the program. The extent of this change was predicted by a higher preintervention score and exposure to less severe violence. This study indicates that even short-term intervention could result in meaningful change in key aspects of child functioning.

Social Competence in Preschool Children: Replication of Results and Clarification of a Hierarchical Measurement Model

AbstractThis study tested assumptions and conclusions reached in an earlier confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) study of the social competence (SC) construct for preschool children. Two samples (total N = 408; a new Portuguese sample and one from US samples that had participated in the original study) contributed data. Seven SC indicators were tested for mean differences across age, sex, and sample. Significant sex differences were found for peer acceptance (favoring girls) and for initiating affectively neutral interactions (boys had higher rates), and the sex by sample interaction also was significant for initiating interactions (i.e., effect significant only in the Portuguese sample). In CFAs, the hypothesized structure of SC fits the data and was invariant across sample and age within sample in both measurement and structural tests. The model was invariant at the measurement level for sex within sample tests, but not at the structural level. The results replicate and extend understandings of SC reported in the original study.

The relationships among language ability, emotion regulation and social competence in second-grade students

Relationships exist between language ability, emotion regulation, and social competence in preschool children. This study examines how these relationships function in elementary school children, and explores whether language ability partially mediates the relationship between emotion regulation and social competence. Second-grade students (N = 67) completed an assessment of receptive vocabulary, and teachers rated emotional and social skills. Results show relationships between emotion regulation and social competence, and between language and aspects of social competence. There were compelling sex differences in the strength of the relationships between these variables. However, language did not act as a mediator. Future research should further investigate the role of language skills in social competence as children mature, and further investigate sex differences in these constructs.

Integrating Dynamic Assessment and Response-to-Intervention in Reading Instruction

Integrating Dynamic Assessment and Response-to-Intervention in Reading Instruction