The effect of psycho-motor play on motor and body perception competence for young children with developmental delays

Abstract

This paper aims to describe how psycho-motor play advances motor competence and body perception, by helping to shape a positive self-image and activate movement. The participants were 4-7 year-old children with developmental delays who attended an inclusive nursery school. The measurement tools used for the pre-test and post-tests were the Mot 4-6 test, the Perception/Motor Competence Test and the Psycho-Educational Profile. The children participated in a six week programme in which they were exposed to various pieces of play equipment. For the data analysis, the total result of the children’s performance was averaged and statistical significance with the t-test and Wilcoxon-test used to determine the difference between pre and post programme scores. The following results were obtained: Firstly, psycho-motor play was effective in the improvement of balance, postural control, and the coordination in the motor competence of Young Children with Developmental Delays (YCDD). Secondly, psycho-motor play was effective for the improvement of body scheme (a component of body perception) and spatial orientation.