Article

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of home and educational
environments on children's motor performance in China.
METHOD: We conducted a
cross-sectional study of 4001 preschool children selected from 160 classes. The
children's motor performance was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery
for Children, 2nd edition
(MABC-2). Home and educational environments were
evaluated using validated checklists. The effects of home and educational
environments on motor performance were analysed using mixed and multilevel
logistic regression models. RESULTS: The results showed that one score increase
in the outside space of the family home was positively associated with the
increase in total test score (0.104) subtest score of aiming and catching
(0.037), and balance (0.034) of the MABC-2, after adjusting for potential
confounders (each p<0.05). Possession of motor toys at home and parental rearing
behaviours were also related to total test score, manual dexterity, and balance
(beta=0.022-0.104, each p<0.05). Space and furnishings, activity, and interaction
in the classroom had a significant positive association with total test score
(beta=0.069-0.201), and with subtest scores of manual dexterity, aiming and
catching, and balance respectively (beta=0.115-0.206). Space and furnishings of
classrooms and possession of toys in the household were protective factors for
'at risk' or significant poor performance (odds ratio 0.942-0.973, each p<0.05).
INTERPRETATION: A permissive and accepting family and educational environment
made a positive contribution to children's motor performance. Access to
sufficient space and furnishings within the classroom, as well as toys in the
family, were protective factors for poor motor performance.
Future assistance is
needed to support an advantageous environment in early childhood programmes in
China.
CI - (c) 2016 Mac Keith Press.

Langue : ANGLAIS