As practitioners committed to fostering optimal development in children, it is essential to rely on evidence-based interventions to address motor skill difficulties in pre-school children. A recent scoping review titled Motor skill intervention for pre-school children: A scoping review provides valuable insights into effective motor skill interventions. Here, we explore the key findings and recommendations from this review to enhance your practice.
Key Findings from the Scoping Review
The review identified 45 studies that examined motor skill interventions for children aged 4–7 years with motor skill difficulties. The interventions were categorized into several approaches, including:
- Visual-Perceptual Motor Approach
- Sensory Integration
- Task-Specific Training
- Cognitive-Motor Approach
- Mastery and Neuro-Motor Task Training
These interventions were delivered in various settings such as schools, therapeutic centers, and homes, with occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) being the primary facilitators. The review found that a 15-week program with two weekly sessions of approximately 45 minutes each could be effective in improving motor skills.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
Based on the findings, here are some actionable recommendations for practitioners:
Therapeutic Input
- Children with motor skill difficulties require specific therapeutic input to make progress and avoid regression.
- Cognitive approaches and task-specific training have shown positive results.
- Incorporate sensory integration principles in an eclectic approach, especially for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Interpersonal and Social Approaches
- Group therapy and a playful, child-centered approach can enhance motor skill improvement.
- Small therapy groups are effective in delivering positive outcomes.
Components of Therapeutic Input
- Comprehensive OT intervention results in significant gains in motor and functional skills.
- School-based approaches and indirect therapy through advice and contributions to a child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) are beneficial.
Implementing the Framework
To effectively implement these interventions, consider the following steps:
- Assess the specific motor skill difficulties and needs of the child.
- Select the appropriate intervention approach(es) based on the child’s needs and the available resources.
- Plan the intervention in a suitable setting, whether it be a school, therapeutic center, or home.
- Ensure that the intervention is playful, child-centered, and incorporates social interaction.
- Monitor progress and adjust the intervention as needed.
By following these evidence-based recommendations, practitioners can make informed decisions that lead to better outcomes for children with motor skill difficulties.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Motor skill intervention for pre-school children: A scoping review.
