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The relationship between perceived physical competence and fundamental motor skills in preschool children

Leah E Robinson1

  • 1Department of Kinesiology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA. lerobinson@auburn.edu

Child: Care, Health and Development
|December 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Preschoolers with better fundamental motor skills also have higher perceived physical competence. Boys showed more advanced motor skills and confidence than girls in this study.

Area of Science:

  • Child Development
  • Motor Skill Acquisition
  • Perceptual Development

Background:

  • Understanding the interplay between motor skills and self-perception in early childhood is crucial.
  • Preschool years are a critical period for developing both fundamental motor skills and self-concept.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between perceived physical competence and fundamental motor skills in preschoolers.
  • To examine the influence of sex on these variables within the preschool population.

Main Methods:

  • 119 preschoolers (mean age 4.00 years) participated.
  • Fundamental motor skills were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development--2nd Edition.
  • Perceived physical competence was measured using the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance.

Main Results:

  • A moderate, significant positive correlation was found between perceived physical competence and fundamental motor skills.
  • Boys exhibited superior fundamental motor skills compared to girls.
  • Boys also reported higher levels of perceived physical competence than girls.

Conclusions:

  • A positive association exists between preschoolers' self-perceived physical abilities and their fundamental motor skills.
  • Findings contribute valuable insights into child development, particularly regarding motor proficiency and self-perception.
  • Sex-based differences in motor skill development and perceived competence warrant further consideration in early childhood education and intervention.
Abstract

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