The Effect of Local Games on Motor Development and Aggression of Preschool Children

This study aimed at examining the effect of local games on motor development and aggressive behavior in preschool children. In a semi-experimental study, 40 children (6 years old) were selected randomly from preschools in Ahwaz city. Pretest was conducted using Ulrich Gross Motor Skills test and Aggression Scale. Based on their pretest scores, subjects were divided into two equal groups: local games and preschool common activities. Local games group participated in local games program for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week while the other group had their preschool common activities. Then, all subjects participated in a posttest. After ensuring normal data distribution using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, paired and independent t tests were used for intergroup and intra-group comparisons. Paired t test analysis showed the significant effect of both programs on motor development and reduction in aggression in preschool children. But intergroup comparison showed the advantage of local games over the preschool common activities (P=0.001). It is suggested that preschools should use local games to enhance motor development and to reduce aggressive behaviors in children.