Abstract
Knowing the level of motor development and potential gender differences in preschool children is important if teachers are to ensure adequate level of fundamental motor skills. The aim of this study was to report the level of motor competency through fundamental motor skills (FMS) and to find possible gender differences in FMS in preschool children 4-6 year old.
A total sample of 284 children (4-6 years old; 126 girls and 158 boys) participated in this cross-sectional study. The test of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2; 2nd edition) was used for the assessment of FMS motor competency using a total test score (TTS) and also a score of three subtests of MABC-2 test (Manual dexterity-MD, Throwing and catching-AC, Balance-BAL).
For interpretation of statistical significance Mann-Whitney U test was used for finding the gender differences in each year of age between 4-6 years old children. Four-years-old girls performed significantly better in TTS score, manual dexterity and balance subtests of MABC-2 test then boys.
We found no gender differences in TTS in five and six years old children. However six-years-old boys performed significantly better in subtest of throwing and catching (AC).
According to TTS score, the trend of increasing motor competency level across all age periods (4, 5, 6 years) was observed in boys while in girls we found conversely decreasing level in TTS score across age. The decreasing level of FMS motor competency level across age in girls is concerning.
Special focus should be paid to improve throwing and catching skills in girls because of its important role in many sport games and activities. Early motor skill programs with gender specific approach should be encourage especially by teachers to help children master a basic motor skills from area of throwing and catching.