Abstract:

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a play-based movement education program conducted both outdoors and in the classroom on the motor development, physical activity, and social skills of sedentary five-year-old children. For this purpose, pre-test-post-test control group model has been used. In this context, the study has been designed according to the pre-test-post-test control group model. The experimental phase of the study spanned eight weeks, divided into two consecutive four-week periods. Children in the experimental group participated in the movement education program, while those in the control group engaged in regular classroom activities during the same designated times. Children's motor skills are assessed in terms of locomotor and object control sub-skills, while their social skills are examined within the sub-dimensions of social cooperation, social independence and social acceptance, and communication skills. Pedometer measurements were used to meticulously record the number of steps taken by children in both groups. The findings of the study revealed significant improvements in the motor development and social skills of the children in the experimental group, whereas there was no noticeable improvement in these aspects among the children in the control group. Additionally, the number of steps taken by the children in the experimental group was markedly higher than those taken by the children in the control group, indicating increased physical activity levels among the experimental group participants. Importantly, the results suggest that the skills acquired by the children in the experimental group had a lasting impact. In summary, the play-based movement education program conducted outdoors and in the classroom had positive effects on motor development, physical activity, and social skills among sedentary five-year-old children, as demonstrated by the study's findings. These results emphasize the importance of incorporating such programs to enhance the overall development of young children.

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