Behavioral Difficulties and Motor Characteristics in Four-Year-Olds

-Early Detection and Early Intervention of Developmental Challenges-

Abstract

Objective: The early detection and support of children with developmental disabilities is a critical issue. Understanding the relationship between behavioral difficulties and motor characteristics during early childhood is essential. This study aimed to explore these relationships in four-year-old children.

Methods: Four-year-old children (N = 52)participated in this study. The study examined the relationship between behavioral traits, assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and motor characteristics, evaluated using the Motor Skills Scale (MKS).

Results: The results revealed significant correlations between boys’ and girls’ SDQ and MKS scores. Hyperactivity/inattention was positively correlated with the ability to jump consecutively with both feet. Emotional problems showed a negative correlation with standing long jump performance. Prosocial behavior was negatively correlated with consecutive jumping and positively correlated with catching skills for both genders. Additionally, among boys, 25-meter sprint performance was negatively correlated with hyperactivity/inattention, whereas standing long jump and ball-throwing skills showed a positive correlation with these SDQ subscales.

Conclusions: In childcare settings, incorporating activities that emphasize strength, timing, and speed may effectively address developmental challenges related to behavioral difficulties. These findings highlight the essential role of structured motor skill activities in fostering early developmental support.