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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
Fundamental motor skill interventions significantly improve executive functions and social-emotional competence in
Yuan Li1,2, Hui Yin Ler2, Dong Zhang1
1Faculty of Physical Education, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, China.
Abstract:
Dynamic and embodied cognition theories propose synchronized motor, cognitive, and affective development; however, evidence on whether fundamental motor skills (FMS) enhance executive functions (EFs) and social-emotional competence (SEC) in preschoolers remains inconsistent. This systematic review (PRISMA-guided) synthesized 2000-2025 evidence from 10 studies (n = 2,039; 6 good, 4 fair quality via PEDro) on FMS interventions in typically developing preschoolers. The meta-analysis revealed significant overall EF (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI 0.20-0.61, p < 0.001) and SEC (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI 0.03-0.20, p = 0.02) improvements. Subgroup analyses suggested that pure FMS programs may yield stronger EF effects (SMD = 0.49) than combined programs (SMD = 0.32), whereas intervention type had a minimal differential impact on SEC outcomes. 5 -year-old benefited more than 3-4-year-old did in both domains (EFs: 0.49 vs. 0.36; SECs: 0.22 vs. 0.12). A higher dosage (>2 sessions/week × 30 min) yielded greater EF gains (0.51 vs. 0.27), while no significant dose-response relationship was observed for SEC. The findings confirm that FMS interventions enhance preschoolers' EFs and SEC, with optimal EFs from pure FMS targeting older children at higher dosages; SEC benefits are consistent across intervention types.
Systematic Review Registration:
The protocol for this systematic review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO with the Unique Identifier: [CRD420251073707]. The registration is publicly accessible at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251073707.
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