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

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 (PA) levels and motor (MC), cognitive (CC), and social (SC) competences. A systematic search of relevant articles was carried out u...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Martínez Merino, Nagore, Rico González, Markel
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2024
País:España
Institución:Universidad del País Vasco
Repositorio:Addi. Archivo Digital para la Docencia y la Investigación
OAI Identifier:oai:addi.ehu.eus:10810/77698
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10810/77698
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:children
motricity
kindergarten
preschool
health
Descripción
Sumario: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 (PA) levels and motor (MC), cognitive (CC), and social (SC) 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 MC, specific fundamental motor skill programs are a key opportunity to improve preschool children’s ability. PA levels may be improved considering structured and regular PE programs (2-3 classes/week). Regarding CC, 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 SC in preschool children with or without motor disabilities. Improving these competences and PA levels in preschool is necessary for the children’s health and holistic development, and the educators’ daily decisions have key importance.