Increasing Physical Activity in Older Preschool Children through Games with Elements of Sports

Abstract

The research on the issue of increasing physical activity in older preschool children has been analyzed. It is noted that the physical activity of older preschoolers is an extremely important aspect of their development and overall well-being. It contributes to the proper physiological development of children, the formation and strengthening of muscles, the development of coordination, and the maintenance of normal musculoskeletal function. It is established that a crucial factor influencing the health and performance of the child’s body is physical activity, a natural need for movement, the satisfaction of which is an essential condition for comprehensive child development. Emphasizing that an effective means of promoting physical activity in older preschool children is through games with elements of sports, which are advisable to systematically conduct in preschool educational institutions. The aim of the study is to justify the influence of games with elements of sports on increasing the physical activity of older preschool children. It is determined that the game form of organizing children’s physical activity acts as a stimulus for emotional enrichment, forms motivation for active participation, and ensures the quality and active performance of motor actions. It is also important to note that playing games with elements of sports outdoors has a double or even triple health-promoting effect on the child’s body. All this emphasizes the importance and expediency of using games with elements of sports in the process of physical education for older preschool children, particularly in increasing physical activity. It is substantiated that the use of games with elements of sports significantly expands the possibilities of physical development of the child's body. Through sports games, children learn the technique of performing movements, tactical combinations that require interaction among participants, as well as develop spatial and temporal orientation. Introducing elements of sports games in preschool age lays the foundation for systematic engagement in one of the sports in the subsequent years in school and in life. Examples of active games with elements of sports to increase the physical activity of preschoolers are proposed.