Can active play replace skill-oriented physical education in enhancing fundamental movement skills among preschool children? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Active play emphasizes the enjoyment of physical activity, it is affordable and unconstrained. In contrast, skill-oriented physical education, a mainstream physical activity intervention, is more formalized. However, the comparative effects of these interventions on fundamental movement skills in preschool children remain a subject of debate.

Purpose

Determine the effectiveness of active play and compare it with skill-oriented physical education on fundamental movement skills.

Methods

We searched four databases (MEDLINE, ERIC, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus) from January 2004 to March 2024. Included studies assessed FMS in children aged 2-6 years, with active play interventions lasting ≥ 4 weeks. The effects of active play and skill-oriented physical educa

SUBMITTER: Liu B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11998302 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature