Effect of a 6-Week Active Play Intervention on Fundamental Movement Skill Competence of Preschool Children.

This study examined the effectiveness of an active play intervention on fundamental movement skills (FMS) amongst 3-5 yearold children from deprived communities. In a cluster randomized controlled trial design, six preschools received a resource pack and a six-week local authority program involving staff training with help implementing 60 minute weekly sessions and post-program support. Six comparison preschools received a resource pack only. Twelve skills were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and at a six-month follow-up using the Children’s Activity and Movement in Preschool Study Motor Skills Protocol. One hundred and sixty two children (Mean age=4.64±0.58yrs; 53.1% boys) were included in the final analyses. There were no significant differences between-groups for total FMS, objectcontrol or locomotor skill scores, indicating a need for program modification to facilitate greater skill improvements.