2025 Volume 7 Pages 9-21
In early childhood, when the development of the nervous system is remarkable, the posture control system also develops simultaneously. However, caregivers often face challenges in supporting children who have difficulties with maintaining posture during childcare activities. This study focuses on “postural maintenance” in classes for 4- and 5-year-olds. By categorizing the issues of children whom caregivers subjectively perceive as having challenges in postural maintenance, the study aims to evaluate improvements in the childcare environment for classes for 1- and 2-year-olds and to develop support strategies that can be implemented from early childhood to assist with posture maintenance.
This research evaluates postural stability, foot morphology, toe morphology, motor skills, and the caregiving environment of 1- and 2-year-old classes. The study divides 4- and 5-year-olds into two groups: those perceived by caregivers as having “postural maintenance issues” and those without such issues. The evaluation showed no significant differences between the groups, nor were there common characteristics found in the “issues” group. Based on these results, an evaluation form aimed at improving the childcare environment in 1- and 2-year-old classes was developed, and an intervention study was conducted to assess its effectiveness.
