Motor development in relation to 24-hour movement behaviours among preschool-aged children: a scoping review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v80.118582Keywords:
24-hour movement behaviours, motor development, physical activity, preschool-aged children, sedentary behaviourAbstract
Introduction: This scoping review examined 24-hour movement behaviours and motor development in preschool-aged children. A search of Web of Science and Scopus identified 17 eligible studies, revealing positive associations between physical activity and motor competence, while evidence on sedentary behaviour and sleep remained limited.
Objective: This review synthesised empirical evidence on associations between 24-hour movement behaviours physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep and motor development among preschool-aged children, while identifying methodological approaches, contextual influences, and research gaps.
Methodology: Conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework, a systematic search of Web of Science and Scopus identified empirical studies examining 24-hour movement behaviours and motor development in preschool-aged children. Included studies were synthesised to identify key findings and research gaps.
Results: 17 studies met inclusion criteria. Physical activity consistently demonstrated positive associations with motor competence, particularly in locomotor and object control domains. Evidence on sedentary behaviour and sleep was limited and heterogeneous. Variation in study design, instruments, and contextual factors including parental attitudes, school environments, and teacher practices reduced cross-study comparability.
Conclusions: Physical activity positively relates to motor competence in preschool-aged children, especially in locomotor and object control skills. Evidence on sedentary behaviour and sleep remains limited. Parental and school factors influence motor development. Future research should adopt standardised approaches in underrepresented regions such as Southeast Asia and Malaysia.
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