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Fairclough SJ, Clifford L, Foweather L, Knowles ZR, Boddy LM, Ashworth E, Tyler R. Move Well, Feel Good: Feasibility and acceptability of a school-based motor competence intervention to promote positive mental health. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303033. [PMID: 38861557 PMCID: PMC11166299 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In response to the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown measures Move Well, Feel Good (MWFG) was developed as a school intervention using improvement of motor competence as a mechanism for promoting positive mental health. Study objectives were to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of MWFG and to describe changes in child-level outcomes. METHODS Five northwest England primary schools were recruited. MWFG was delivered over 10-weeks through physical education (PE) lessons, which were supplemented by optional class-time, break-time, and home activities. The intervention focused on development of 9-10 year-old children's motor competence in locomotor, object control, and stability skills, and psychosocial skills. Feasibility was evaluated against nine pre-defined criteria using surveys, interviews (teachers), and focus groups (children). Pre- and post-intervention assessments of motor competence, mental health, prosocial behaviour, wellbeing, and 24-hour movement behaviours were also completed. RESULTS The five recruited schools represented 83% of the target number, 108 children consented (54% of target) with teachers recruited in all schools (100% of target). Intervention dose was reflected by 76% of the 45 scheduled PE lessons being delivered, and adherence was strong (>85% of children attending ≥75% of lessons). Positive indicators of acceptability were provided by 86% of children, 83% of PE teachers, and 90% of class teachers. Data collection methods were deemed acceptable by 91% of children and 80% of class teachers, and children spoke positively about participating in the data collection. Child-level outcome data collection was completed by 65%-97% of children, with a 3%-35% attrition rate at post-intervention, depending on measure. Favourable changes in motor competence (+13.7%), mental health difficulties (-8.8%), and prosocial behaviour (+7.6%) were observed. CONCLUSIONS MWFG is an acceptable and feasible motor competence intervention to promote positive mental health. Content and delivery modifications could inform progression to a pilot trial with a more robust design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J. Fairclough
- Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Sport, Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Clifford
- Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Sport, Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence Foweather
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe R. Knowles
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lynne M. Boddy
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Ashworth
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Tyler
- Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Sport, Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, Lancashire, United Kingdom
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Zi Y, Bartels M, Dolan C, de Geus EJC. Genetic confounding in the association of early motor development with childhood and adolescent exercise behavior. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2024; 21:33. [PMID: 38515105 PMCID: PMC10958919 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-024-01583-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early motor development has been found to be a predictor of exercise behavior in children and adolescents, but whether this reflects a causal effect or confounding by genetic or shared environmental factors remains to be established. METHODS For 20,911 complete twin pairs from the Netherlands Twin Register a motor development score was obtained from maternal reports on the timing of five motor milestones. During a 12-year follow-up, subsamples of the mothers reported on the twins' ability to perform seven gross motor skills ability (N = 17,189 pairs), and weekly minutes of total metabolic equivalents of task (MET) spent on sports and exercise activities at age 7 (N = 3632 pairs), age 10 (N = 3735 pairs), age 12 (N = 7043 pairs), and age 14 (N = 3990 pairs). Multivariate phenotypic and genetic regression analyses were used to establish the predictive strength of the two motor development traits for future exercise behavior, the contribution of genetic and shared environmental factors to the variance in all traits, and the contribution of familial confounding to the phenotypic prediction. RESULTS Significant heritability (h2) and shared environmental (c2) effects were found for early motor development in boys and girls (h2 = 43-65%; c2 = 16-48%). For exercise behavior, genetic influences increased with age (boys: h2age7 = 22% to h2age14 = 51%; girls: h2age7 = 3% to h2age14 = 18%) paired to a parallel decrease in the influence of the shared environment (boys: c2age7 = 68% to c2age14 = 19%; girls: c2age7 = 80% to c2age14 = 48%). Early motor development explained 4.3% (p < 0.001) of the variance in future exercise behavior in boys but only 1.9% (p < 0.001) in girls. If the effect in boys was due to a causal effect of motor development on exercise behavior, all of the factors influencing motor development would, through the causal chain, also influence future exercise behavior. Instead, only the genetic parts of the regression of exercise behavior on motor development were significant. Shared and unique environmental parts of the regression were largely non-significant, which is at odds with the causal hypothesis. CONCLUSION No support was found for a direct causal effect in the association between rapid early motor development on future exercise behavior. In boys, early motor development appears to be an expression of the same genetic factors that underlie the heritability of childhood and early adolescent exercise behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahua Zi
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 7, H541, Medical Faculty Building, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Netherlands
| | - Meike Bartels
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 7, H541, Medical Faculty Building, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Conor Dolan
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 7, H541, Medical Faculty Building, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eco J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 7, H541, Medical Faculty Building, Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Netherlands.
- Department of Biological Psychology, Netherlands Twin Register, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Clifford L, Tyler R, Knowles Z, Ashworth E, Boddy L, Foweather L, Fairclough SJ. Co-Creation of a School-Based Motor Competence and Mental Health Intervention: Move Well, Feel Good. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1403. [PMID: 37628403 PMCID: PMC10453743 DOI: 10.3390/children10081403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Low motor competence (MC) and inhibited psychosocial development are associated with mental health difficulties. Improving children's MC through school-based physical activity interventions emphasising psychosocial development may therefore be a mechanism for promoting positive mental health. This study describes and provides reflective insights into the co-creation of 'Move Well Feel Good', a primary school physical activity intervention to improve children's MC and mental health. Class teachers, school leaders, physical activity specialists, and children (aged 8-9 years) participated in a series of co-creation workshops. Stakeholders' knowledge and experiences were integrated with existing research evidence using creative methods (e.g., post-it note tasks, worksheets, and drawings) to facilitate discussion. The co-creation process culminated in stakeholder consensus voting for one of three proposed intervention ideas. Children cited physical and mental health benefits, enjoyment with friends, and high perceived competence as motives for being physically active. Opportunities to develop MC across the different segments of the school day were identified by adult stakeholders, who perceived children's lack of resilience, an overloaded curriculum, and poor parental support for physical activity as barriers to intervention implementation. The chosen intervention idea received six out of a possible twelve votes. Co-creation projects are specific to the contexts in which they are implemented. This study reinforces the complex nature of school-based intervention development and highlights the value of engaging with stakeholders in co-creation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Clifford
- Movement Behaviours, Health, Wellbeing, and Nutrition Research Group, Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Edge Hill University, St. Helens Road, Ormskirk L39 4QP, UK; (R.T.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Richard Tyler
- Movement Behaviours, Health, Wellbeing, and Nutrition Research Group, Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Edge Hill University, St. Helens Road, Ormskirk L39 4QP, UK; (R.T.); (S.J.F.)
| | - Zoe Knowles
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 5 Primrose Hill, Liverpool L3 2EX, UK; (Z.K.); (L.B.); (L.F.)
| | - Emma Ashworth
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 5UX, UK;
| | - Lynne Boddy
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 5 Primrose Hill, Liverpool L3 2EX, UK; (Z.K.); (L.B.); (L.F.)
| | - Lawrence Foweather
- The Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 5 Primrose Hill, Liverpool L3 2EX, UK; (Z.K.); (L.B.); (L.F.)
| | - Stuart J. Fairclough
- Movement Behaviours, Health, Wellbeing, and Nutrition Research Group, Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Edge Hill University, St. Helens Road, Ormskirk L39 4QP, UK; (R.T.); (S.J.F.)
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Sollerhed AC. Factors associated with implemented teacher-led movement and physical activity in early childhood education and care. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1221566. [PMID: 37575452 PMCID: PMC10415036 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1221566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Movement and physical activity (MoPA) is critical for children's development and health. This study aimed to explore early childhood education and care (ECEC) educators' reported frequency of implemented gross motor and physical activities (MoPA) among children in ECEC, as well as the educators' reported personal physical activity (PA) levels in leisure time. A cross-sectional survey was performed in 68 preschools in southern Sweden. Data were obtained from questionnaires completed by 359 ECEC educators. The participation rate was 61%. About two thirds offered MoPA once a week or more seldom, while one quarter offered MoPA at least every other day. Educators who reported personal PA three times or more per week, offered MoPA for the children at least every other day to a higher extent (37%) compared to colleagues who reported personal PA once or twice a week (26%) or colleagues who reported that they were never or seldom active (18%) (p = 0.034). The results from multiple logistic regression analysis showed that reported implemented MoPA among children in ECEC was significantly associated with the educators' perceptions that free play improved children's gross motor skills (OR 2.7), the educators' perceptions of needed curricular guidelines for MoPA (OR 2.1), the educators' own leisure PA level (OR 2.0) and the educators' perceptions that adequate gross motor skills were not learned at home (OR 0.4). Teacher-led MoPA occurs sparingly during the preschool day and the teachers believe that the children get sufficient MoPA in free play. The children are expected to develop their motor skills to a sufficient extent during the short moments of offered outdoor play. Teachers who are physically active in their leisure-time seem to offer gross motor training for the children to a higher extent than less active or inactive colleagues.
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O’Brien W, Khodaverdi Z, Bolger L, Murphy O, Philpott C, Kearney PE. Exploring Recommendations for Child and Adolescent Fundamental Movement Skills Development: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3278. [PMID: 36833974 PMCID: PMC9966577 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Fundamental movement skills (FMS) are frequently referred to as the "building blocks" of movement for children and adolescents in their lifelong physical activity journey. It is critical, however, that FMS are developed within Physical Education learning environments and other sport-related settings, specifically as these building blocks of movement require appropriate teaching and practice opportunities. While FMS are well-established as an "important focus" for children and adolescents, to the authors' knowledge, there appears to be no standardized FMS development guidelines existent within the literature. This paper will examine whether the frequency, intensity, time, and type (FITT) principle could be transferable to interventions focusing on FMS development, and if so, whether sufficient consistency of findings exists to guide practitioners in their session design. Applying the FITT principle in this way may help to facilitate the comparison of FMS-related intervention studies, which may contribute to the future development of practical FMS-related guidelines for children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley O’Brien
- Sports Studies and Physical Education Programme, School of Education, University College Cork, 2 Lucan Place, Western Road, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland
| | - Zeinab Khodaverdi
- Department of Biobehavioral Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Lisa Bolger
- Department of Sport, Leisure and Childhood Studies, Munster Technological University (Cork Campus), T12 P928 Cork, Ireland
| | - Orla Murphy
- Sports Studies and Physical Education Programme, School of Education, University College Cork, 2 Lucan Place, Western Road, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland
| | - Conor Philpott
- Sports Studies and Physical Education Programme, School of Education, University College Cork, 2 Lucan Place, Western Road, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland
| | - Philip E. Kearney
- Sport & Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
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Sollerhed AC. Perceived insufficient pedagogical content knowledge in teaching movement and physical activity. Experiences from an action-oriented study among educators in early childhood education and care. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 4:1050311. [PMID: 36726394 PMCID: PMC9885172 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.1050311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Movement and physical activity (MoPA) are critical to children's health and development. Many children aged 1-5 years are enrolled in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) in Sweden, and high expectations are placed on educators to deliver education of sufficient quality to support children's development. The aim of the 18-month-long action-based study was to investigate how 88 ECEC educators in five preschools perceived and experienced the priority and teaching of MoPA. The educators planned and implemented MoPA sessions among children. They filmed sequences from the sessions, which were shown in the focus groups and were the starting point for the collegial discussions. Content analysis of the focus group discussions revealed three themes: Teaching aspects; Educational aspects; Structural aspects, with associated subthemes. During the project with the trial-and-error MoPA teaching, the educators detected insufficient PCK to teach MoPA and that teaching was often replaced with free play. Increased metacognition made the educators aware of children's different MoPA levels and that free play did not always increase all children's skills. The perceived insufficient pedagogical content knowledge to teach MoPA was perceived as a troublesome barrier for promoting MoPA. During the project, the educators' metacognition about MoPA increased, which made the educators aware of children's different MoPA levels and that free play did not always increase all children's skills. Despite of increased metacognition, most of the educators were not ready to leave their comfort zones and were not open to extra work or effort when it came to MoPA. However, the educators demonstrated the need for improved education in MoPA in early childhood teacher education, as well as the need for continuous education for working educators in ECEC to enhance the pedagogic content knowledge for adequate teaching in MoPA, which is important for children's present development and future health.
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7
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Kilroy E, Ring P, Hossain A, Nalbach A, Butera C, Harrison L, Jayashankar A, Vigen C, Aziz-Zadeh L, Cermak SA. Motor performance, praxis, and social skills in autism spectrum disorder and developmental coordination disorder. Autism Res 2022; 15:1649-1664. [PMID: 35785418 PMCID: PMC9543450 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has shown that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental coordination disorder (DCD) may have overlapping social and motor skill impairments. This study compares ASD, DCD, and typically developing (TD) youth on a range of social, praxis and motor skills, and investigates the relationship between these skills in each group. Data were collected on participants aged 8–17 (n = 33 ASD, n = 28 DCD, n = 35 TD). Overall, the clinical groups showed some similar patterns of social and motor impairments but diverged in praxis impairments, cognitive empathy, and Theory of Mind ability. When controlling for both social and motor performance impairments, the ASD group showed significantly lower accuracy on imitation of meaningful gestures and gesture to command, indicating a prominent deficit in these praxis skills in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kilroy
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Brain and Creativity Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Priscilla Ring
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anusha Hossain
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alexis Nalbach
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christiana Butera
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Brain and Creativity Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laura Harrison
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Brain and Creativity Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Aditya Jayashankar
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Brain and Creativity Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cheryl Vigen
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lisa Aziz-Zadeh
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Brain and Creativity Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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8
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Sollerhed AC, Olesen LG, Froberg K, Soini A, Sääkslahti A, Kristjánsdóttir G, Vilhjálmsson R, Fjørtoft I, Larsen R, Ekberg JE. Movement and Physical Activity in Early Childhood Education and Care Policies of Five Nordic Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413226. [PMID: 34948837 PMCID: PMC8706902 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the values of movement and physical activity (MoPA) using government policy documents (e.g., laws and curricula) on early childhood education and care (ECEC) from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. This descriptive, comparative study was designed based on curriculum theory and used word count and content analyses to identify similarities and differences in the occurrence of MoPA in the ECEC policies of Nordic countries. Seven terms were identified as MoPA-related in Nordic policy documents. These terms occurred in various content contexts: development, environment, expression, health and well-being, learning and play, albeit sparsely. MoPA was referred to as both a goal in and of itself and as a means of achieving other goals (e.g., learning or development in another area). Formulations specifically dedicated to MoPA as a goal were present in the Danish and Finnish curricula and, to some extent, also in the Norwegian curriculum, while the Icelandic and Swedish curricula mentioned MoPA mostly as a means. Findings indicated that MoPA, which is important for children’s development, health, and well-being, is a low-priority value, to varying degrees, in the ECEC policies enacted by Nordic countries and the guidance provided to educators and stakeholders therein is inexplicit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Christin Sollerhed
- Faculty of Teacher Education, Kristianstad University, 291 39 Kristianstad, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-44-250-33-32
| | - Line Grønholt Olesen
- Centre of Research in Childhood Health, Research Unit for Exercise Epidemiology, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark; (L.G.O.); (K.F.)
| | - Karsten Froberg
- Centre of Research in Childhood Health, Research Unit for Exercise Epidemiology, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark; (L.G.O.); (K.F.)
| | - Anne Soini
- Department of Education, University of Jyväskylä, 40014 Jyväskylän, Finland;
| | - Arja Sääkslahti
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, 40014 Jyväskylän, Finland;
| | | | - Rúnar Vilhjálmsson
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland; (G.K.); (R.V.)
| | - Ingunn Fjørtoft
- Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3672 Notodden, Norway; (I.F.); (R.L.)
| | - Robert Larsen
- Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3672 Notodden, Norway; (I.F.); (R.L.)
| | - Jan-Eric Ekberg
- Department of Sport Sciences, Malmö University, 211 19 Malmö, Sweden;
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Duncan MJ, Martins C, Ribeiro Bandeira PF, Issartel J, Peers C, Belton S, O'Connor NE, Behan S. TGMD-3 short version: Evidence of validity and associations with sex in Irish children. J Sports Sci 2021; 40:138-145. [PMID: 34727846 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1978161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the internal structure and evidence of validity of the Test of Gross Motor Development 3rd edition (TGMD-3) in primary school aged children. Participants (n = 1608, 47% girls, age range 5-11 years, mean age 9.2 ± 2.04) were recruited from Irish schools across twelve counties (56% rural, 44% urban). The TGMD-3 was used to measure FMS proficiency (Ulrich, 2020). A two-factor model (13 skills) was used and confirmatory indexes were calculated. The Bayesian criteria and the Composite Reliability were employed to evaluate alternative models. Relationships between the final model proposed with age, sex and BMI were calculated using a network analysis. Mplus 8.0 and Rstudio were used. A two-factor model (locomotion and object control) with adequate values (> 0.30) for the seven skills (gallop, hop, jump, two-hand strike, bounce, catch, overhand throw) presented excellent indexes. The skills with the highest indicator of strength centrality in the network were bounce and catch for both boys and girls and hop for boys and horizontal jump for girls. This study evidences the validity and reliability of the internal structure of the TGMD-3 and demonstrates that a short version of the TGMD-3, comprising seven skills is a valid measure of FMS in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Duncan
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Clarice Martins
- Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, Porto University, Portugal.,Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Johann Issartel
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Cameron Peers
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sarahjane Belton
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Noel E O'Connor
- Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen Behan
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland.,Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics, Dublin, Ireland
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10
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Ma J, Lander N, Eyre ELJ, Barnett LM, Essiet IA, Duncan MJ. It's Not Just What You Do but the Way You Do It: A Systematic Review of Process Evaluation of Interventions to Improve Gross Motor Competence. Sports Med 2021; 51:2547-2569. [PMID: 34339044 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01519-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor competence is an important predictor of health behaviours. However, levels of motor competence are low in children and adolescents. Many interventions have improved motor competence, yet intervention effects were highly variable. Potential causes of such variations are not fully understood. Process evaluation can assist with the understanding of why an intervention worked or not, but its application and reporting in motor competence interventions has received little attention. OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this review was to investigate whether process evaluations have been reported in interventions to improve motor competence and, if reported, which process evaluation measures have been used. A secondary aim was to explore the association of intervention characteristics and process evaluation findings (outcomes of process evaluation measures) with intervention outcomes, in a search for what process evaluation measures may impact on intervention functioning and outcomes. METHODS The process of conducting and reporting this review adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019124412). A systematic search of seven electronic databases (i.e. MEDLINE [via EBSCOhost], Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL], CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, Education Database, SPORTDiscus and Scopus) was conducted with no date restrictions. Eligibility criteria included the following: (1) a study sample of typically developing children and adolescents aged 5-18 years, (2) an intervention aimed to improve motor competence, (3) an intervention included a control group, (4) a report of motor competence outcome at both pre- and post-intervention. Only original articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals were considered. Process evaluation measures and findings were extracted using the UK Medical Research Council's process evaluation framework in order to provide overarching descriptions on the implementation, mechanism of change and context of interventions. Univariable meta-regressions were performed to ascertain whether selected study-level covariates moderated the improvement in motor competence outcomes in interventions. RESULTS The search identified 60 intervention studies. Only 30 studies (50%) reported process evaluation measures. No studies reported (or employed) theoretical frameworks to guide process evaluation. Process evaluation measures relating to implementation were most commonly reported, with the most prevalent aspect being fidelity. This was followed by reporting on measures relating to mechanism of change and context of the intervention. Meta-analysis results suggested intervention duration, dose, inclusion of process evaluation aim, provision of lesson plans, sample size and sex as potential moderators. CONCLUSIONS Reporting of process evaluation measures may help build our understanding of the optimal characteristics of motor competence interventions. However, process evaluation is under-used and/or under-reported. This review serves as a call for more process evaluations and better reporting in motor competence interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Ma
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK. .,School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
| | - Natalie Lander
- School of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Emma L J Eyre
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Lisa M Barnett
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia.,Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Inimfon A Essiet
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK.,School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael J Duncan
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
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11
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Strotmeyer A, Kehne M, Herrmann C. Effects of an Intervention for Promoting Basic Motor Competencies in Middle Childhood. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147343. [PMID: 34299794 PMCID: PMC8303540 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The development of motor competencies is necessary for participation in the culture of sport, exercise, and physical activity, which in turn supports the development of a healthy lifestyle. A lack of physical activity in childhood and deficits in motor performance emphasize the relevance of interventions for promoting basic motor competencies. However, there are research desiderata with regard to such interventions. This article describes an intervention program for promoting basic motor competencies in middle childhood (around 6 to 10 years of age). The intervention was investigated in a longitudinal study from June 2019 to January 2020 (n = 200; 58% girls, M = 8.84 years, SD = 0.63) at three primary schools. The intervention was conducted once a week in physical education (PE). The comparison group participated in regular PE. The intervention showed significant effects on basic motor competencies in object movement but not in self-movement. The results demonstrate that positive effects on basic motor competencies can be achieved with the help of a relatively simple intervention. Further longitudinal studies are desirable as a means of substantiating the results and developing evidence-based concepts to support children in their development in the best possible way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Strotmeyer
- Department of Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, 33098 Paderborn, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-5251-60-5307
| | - Miriam Kehne
- Department of Exercise and Health, Paderborn University, 33098 Paderborn, Germany;
| | - Christian Herrmann
- Physical Education Research Group, Zurich University of Teacher Education, 8090 Zurich, Switzerland;
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12
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Arthur T, Harris DJ, Allen K, Naylor CE, Wood G, Vine S, Wilson MR, Tsaneva-Atanasova K, Buckingham G. Visuo-motor attention during object interaction in children with developmental coordination disorder. Cortex 2021; 138:318-328. [PMID: 33780720 PMCID: PMC8064026 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2021.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) describes a condition of poor motor performance in the absence of intellectual impairment. Despite being one of the most prevalent developmental disorders, little is known about how fundamental visuomotor processes might function in this group. One prevalent idea is children with DCD interact with their environment in a less predictive fashion than typically developing children. A metric of prediction which has not been examined in this group is the degree to which the hands and eyes are coordinated when performing manual tasks. To this end, we examined hand and eye movements during an object lifting task in a group of children with DCD (n = 19) and an age-matched group of children without DCD (n = 39). We observed no differences between the groups in terms of how well they coordinated their hands and eyes when lifting objects, nor in terms of the degree by which the eye led the hand. We thus find no evidence to support the proposition that children with DCD coordinate their hands and eyes in a non-predictive fashion. In a follow-up exploratory analysis we did, however, note differences in fundamental patterns of eye movements between the groups, with children in the DCD group showing some evidence of atypical visual sampling strategies and gaze anchoring behaviours during the task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Arthur
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - David J Harris
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Kate Allen
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK; Department of Health and Social Care, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, UK
| | | | - Greg Wood
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK
| | - Sam Vine
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Mark R Wilson
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova
- Department of Mathematics, College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, UK; Translational Research Exchange @ Exeter, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Gavin Buckingham
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, UK; Translational Research Exchange @ Exeter, University of Exeter, UK.
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13
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Motor Competence Among Children in the United Kingdom and Ireland: An Expert Statement on Behalf of the International Motor Development Research Consortium. JOURNAL OF MOTOR LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1123/jmld.2021-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The United Kingdom and Ireland have a well-established research base in motor competence (MC) research, ranging from reporting and monitoring levels of MC, developing assessment tools for MC, providing innovative curriculum and intervention design to support learning and development, as well as providing advocacy for particular groups, such as those with motor impairments. This expert statement, on behalf of the International Motor Development Research Consortium, draws together what is currently known about levels of MC in the United Kingdom and Ireland as well as current approaches to intervention in both countries. Subsequently presented are recommendations for researchers and practitioners to advance the field of MC for the benefit of children and youth in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and worldwide.
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14
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van der Walt J, Plastow NA, Unger M. Motor skill intervention for pre-school children: A scoping review. Afr J Disabil 2020; 9:747. [PMID: 33354535 PMCID: PMC7736652 DOI: 10.4102/ajod.v9i0.747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a high prevalence of motor skill difficulties amongst pre-school children living in low socio-economic areas. Motor skill impairment can affect these children’s school readiness and academic progress, social skills, play and general independence. Objectives This scoping review investigates the key elements of existing motor skill interventions for pre-school children. Method We gathered information through structured database searches from Cinahl, Eric, PubMed, Cochrane, ProQuest, Psych Net, PEDro and Scopus, using a keyword string. The PRISMA-SCR design was used to identify 45 eligible studies. All included studies investigated a motor skill intervention with well-defined outcome measures for children aged 4–7 years with motor skill difficulties. Studies that exclusively focused on children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, physical disabilities or medical/physical deteriorating conditions were excluded. Information was charted on MS Excel spreadsheets. Fundamental concepts were categorised into common key themes and were converted into a proposed framework. Results Fifteen intervention approaches were identified. Treatment is mostly managed by occupational therapists and physiotherapists. Evidence supports individual and group treatment with a child-centred, playful approach in a school or therapeutic setting. Whilst session information varied, there is moderate evidence to suggest that a 15-week programme, with two weekly sessions, may be feasible. Conclusion Children with motor skill difficulties need therapeutic intervention. This study identified the key elements of existing therapy intervention methods and converted it into a proposed framework for intervention planning. It is a first step towards addressing motor skill difficulties amongst pre-school children in low socio-economic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janke van der Walt
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nicola A Plastow
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marianne Unger
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Heath Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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15
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Ma J, Hogan MJ, Eyre ELJ, Lander N, Barnett LM, Duncan MJ. Using Collective Intelligence to identify barriers to implementing and sustaining effective Fundamental Movement Skill interventions: A rationale and application example. J Sports Sci 2020; 39:691-698. [PMID: 33121348 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1841395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
To have population-level impact, interventions must be effectively implemented and sustained under real-world conditions. Few Fundamental Movement Skill (FMS) interventions are implemented at scale, and even fewer are sustained in a way that allows for ongoing evaluation. There has been increasing recognition of applying systems thinking to investigate the multitude of influences on interventions. To improve research-practice translations, investigations need to incorporate synthesised perspective and collective input from intervention stakeholders. This study trials Collective Intelligence (CI) - an applied systems science approach - to understand barriers to the adoption, implementation and institutionalisation of effective FMS interventions for children and adolescents. A total of 58 barriers were generated and organised into 13 barrier categories. Participants voted to select 10 critical barriers and generated a structural map among the barriers to guide future action mapping. Barriers related to Government and Institutional factors and Curricular Conflicts were structured as fundamental drivers of the system of barriers. By presenting this application example, we aim to underline the considerations and alleviate barriers to conducting much needed implementation and sustainability studies in FMS interventions. CI also adds to the "tool box" to understand the complexity and functioning of public health interventions, such as those targeting physical activity behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Ma
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK.,School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J Hogan
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Emma L J Eyre
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Natalie Lander
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lisa M Barnett
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia.,Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J Duncan
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
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16
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Eddy LH, Bingham DD, Crossley KL, Shahid NF, Ellingham-Khan M, Otteslev A, Figueredo NS, Mon-Williams M, Hill LJB. The validity and reliability of observational assessment tools available to measure fundamental movement skills in school-age children: A systematic review. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237919. [PMID: 32841268 PMCID: PMC7447071 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) play a critical role in ontogenesis. Many children have insufficient FMS, highlighting the need for universal screening in schools. There are many observational FMS assessment tools, but their psychometric properties are not readily accessible. A systematic review was therefore undertaken to compile evidence of the validity and reliability of observational FMS assessments, to evaluate their suitability for screening. METHODS A pre-search of 'fundamental movement skills' OR 'fundamental motor skills' in seven online databases (PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, EBSCO CINAHL, EBSCO SPORTDiscus, Ovid PsycINFO and Web of Science) identified 24 assessment tools for school-aged children that: (i) assess FMS; (ii) measure actual motor competence and (iii) evaluate performance on a standard battery of tasks. Studies were subsequently identified that: (a) used these tools; (b) quantified validity or reliability and (c) sampled school-aged children. Study quality was assessed using COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklists. RESULTS Ninety studies were included following the screening of 1863 articles. Twenty-one assessment tools had limited or no evidence to support their psychometric properties. The Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD, n = 34) and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC, n = 37) were the most researched tools. Studies consistently reported good evidence for validity, reliability for the TGMD, whilst only 64% of studies reported similarly promising results for the MABC. Twelve studies found good evidence for the reliability and validity of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency but poor study quality appeared to inflate results. Considering all assessment tools, those with promising psychometric properties often measured limited aspects of validity/reliability, and/or had limited feasibility for large scale deployment in a school-setting. CONCLUSION There is insufficient evidence to justify the use of any observational FMS assessment tools for universal screening in schools, in their current form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy H. Eddy
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel D. Bingham
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty L. Crossley
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Nishaat F. Shahid
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Marsha Ellingham-Khan
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Ava Otteslev
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie S. Figueredo
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Mon-Williams
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, University of South-Eastern Norway, Notodden, Norway
| | - Liam J. B. Hill
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Centre for Applied Education Research, Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
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17
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The Effects of Physical Education on Motor Competence in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports (Basel) 2020; 8:sports8060088. [PMID: 32549319 PMCID: PMC7353627 DOI: 10.3390/sports8060088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Appropriate levels of motor competence are an integrated part of individuals’ health-related fitness, and physical education is proposed as an important context for developing a broad range of motor skills. The aim of the current study was to apply meta-analyses to assess the effectiveness of curriculum-based physical education on the development of the overall motor competence of children and adolescents. Studies were located by searching seven databases and included according to predefined criteria. Random effects models using the standardized effect size (Hedges’ g) were used to aggregate results, including an examination of heterogeneity and inconsistency. The meta-analysis included 20 studies, and a total of 38 effect sizes were calculated. A statistically significant improvement in motor competence following curriculum-based physical education compared to active control groups was observed in children and adolescents (g = −0.69, 95% CI −0.91 to −0.46, n = 23). Participants’ ages, total time for physical education intervention, and type of motor competence assessment did not appear to be statistically significant moderators of effect size. Physical education with various curricula can, therefore, increase overall motor competence in children and adolescents.
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18
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Taverna L, Tremolada M, Tosetto B, Dozza L, Renata ZS. Impact of Psycho-Educational Activities on Visual-Motor Integration, Fine Motor Skills and Name Writing among First Graders: A Kinematic Pilot Study. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7040027. [PMID: 32252298 PMCID: PMC7231227 DOI: 10.3390/children7040027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This pilot study presents the effects on acquisition of pre-writing skills of educational activities targeting visual-motor integration and fine motor skills on a convenient sample of first graders. After a 10-week intervention program, visual perceptual skills and fine motor control were tested on 13 six-year-old aged children. Participants completed the Beery-Buktenica VMI and the manual dexterity scale of the Movement ABC-2 at baseline (T1), after the intervention program (T2), and one month after the end of the educational activities (T3). Children's writing pressure, frequency, and automaticity were measured using a digitizer during the administration of name writing test at T1, T2, and T3. The purpose of the study was to investigate changes in visual-perceptual abilities and fine motor skills after the intervention program and examine correlational effects on children's kinematic writing performances. Findings reveal that educational activities impacted positively on children's visual motor coordination component of writing improving VMI scores. No statistically significant difference was detected across the three time points on students' manual dexterity skills. Measurement of writing kinematics allows to report and document variations in children's writing during intervention. This pilot study discusses these findings and their implications for the field on early childhood acquisition of foundational skills for handwriting. It also proposes potential topics for future research on this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Taverna
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (Z.S.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0472014029
| | - Marta Tremolada
- Department of Development and Social Psychology and Department of Child and Woman Health, University of Padua, 35100 Padua, Italy;
- Department of Women and Child’s Health, Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Barbara Tosetto
- Medical School for Health Professions, “Claudiana”, 39100 Bozen, Italy;
| | - Liliana Dozza
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (Z.S.R.)
| | - Zanin Scaratti Renata
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (Z.S.R.)
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19
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Taverna L, Tremolada M, Dozza L, Zanin Scaratti R, Ulrike D, Lallo C, Tosetto B. Who Benefits from An Intervention Program on Foundational Skills for Handwriting Addressed to Kindergarten Children and First Graders? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2166. [PMID: 32214003 PMCID: PMC7142437 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17062166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the effectiveness of a 10-wk intervention program based on occupational therapy principles on visual-motor integration skills and fine motor abilities in kindergartners and first graders. We recruited 55 students tested three times with the Visual-Motor Integration Test (VMI) and Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2): before the intervention (T1), post-intervention (T2) and one month later (T3). Research findings: Significant improvements were found on VMI between T1 and T2, particularly for kindergartners. Neither group of children demonstrated changes on manual dexterity scores. The present study showed that the intervention program led to different changes in the at-risk of motor impairment group than in the not at-risk children. Results indicated that games and stimulation activities helped children below the 16th percentile over time in the manual dexterity domain. A gender effect was observed, with female children increasing their abilities over time more than male peers. Future research should concentrate on stimulating fine motor skills in hand manipulation and test how these abilities influence graphomotor skills and handwriting over time. Finally, more research is needed to determine the impact of activities and games carried out in educational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Taverna
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Marta Tremolada
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padua, 35100 Padua, Italy;
- Department of Women and Child’s Health, Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Liliana Dozza
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Renata Zanin Scaratti
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, 39042 Brixen-Bressanone, Italy; (L.D.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Domahs Ulrike
- Institute for German Linguistics, University of Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany;
| | - Carlo Lallo
- Department of Law, University of Roma Tre, 00154 Rome, Italy;
| | - Barbara Tosetto
- Medical School for Health Professions “Claudiana”, 39100 Bozen, Italy;
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