What is motor competence in children?

Motor competence refers to an individual's proficiency in a wide range of motor skills, including quality of movement, coordination, and control, which is important for physical fitness and health behaviors.

How did COVID-19 restrictions affect children's motor skills?

COVID-19 restrictions led to a substantial decline in children's movement skills, impacting their ability to balance, move well, and manipulate objects, which negatively affects physical fitness and participation in sports.

Were there any signs of recovery in children's motor skills after the pandemic?

Yes, evidence suggests possible recovery after the post-COVID-19 decline, with one study in Uruguay showing locomotor skills had returned to pre-pandemic levels by 2022.

Home / Health / Study: Pandemic Hit Children's Movement Abilities

Study: Pandemic Hit Children's Movement Abilities

8 Feb

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Summary

Children's motor skills declined significantly post-COVID-19 restrictions.
Lockdowns and reduced activity impacted balance, coordination, and object manipulation.
Declines were most pronounced in younger children and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Study: Pandemic Hit Children's Movement Abilities

A comprehensive analysis of over 278,000 children and young people aged three to 19 has identified a consistent decline in motor competence following COVID-19 restrictions. Published in the Journal of Sport Sciences, the study examined changes in movement skills, including balance, coordination, and object manipulation, before and after lockdowns.

Researchers observed small to moderate reductions across Europe, Asia, and South America, with the most significant declines noted in overall ability and among children from lower socio-economic backgrounds. These pandemic-accelerated trends were more severe than gradual pre-existing declines in motor skills. While some recovery has been observed, the findings suggest a substantial negative impact on physical fitness and participation in physical activity.

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