Preventing delays in motor skills at School

Rationale: Approximately 33% of children in primary school in Amsterdam have delays in motor skills. Children with severe delays are referred to external health professionals. However, children with milder delays need extra support in school. Although several programs exist, there is not enough evidence on the effectiveness of these programs. These children are especially important because they are at risk of developing more severe delays throughout time.

Goal: The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of two existing interventions (Gym+ and Motor Remedial Teaching) on the motor skills, perceived motor skills, physical activity, physical fitness, enjoyment and weight status.

Methods: 15 schools in Amsterdam will be included (5 Gym+ schools, 5 MRT schools, 5 control schools). Per school approximately 10 children (grade 1/2) will participate. Measurements will be done before the start of the interventions, at the end of the intervention and 6 months after the intervention. A few children will be interviewed about their participation in the intervention and physical activity in general. During the intervention, an expert panel will visit the intervention: they will perform an observation and they will fill in a checklist on the characteristics of the intervention.

It is hypothesized that motor skills, perceived motor skills, physical activity, physical fitness, enjoyment and weight status will improve due to the intervention carried out. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that no difference between results of both interventions will be found.

minimal 8 months - maximal 15 months

2 interventions are included: Gym+ and MRT. Characteristics of these interventions vary between schools and are given by different persons. Therefore, the characteristics of the specific interventions will be evaluated during this study. On average, the interventions take place once a week for approximately 45 minutes.