Designing a toy to improve teaching and learning of gross motor skills in children of 3 to 6 years

One of the most important issues in the development of children is the development of gross and fine motor skills. Given that recent researches in Iran indicate that a significant percentage of children aged 3 to 6 years have impaired and delayed gross motor skills, finding ways to help these children seems to be essential. Therefore, the aim of this study is to design a toy to improve the teaching and learning of gross motor skills in children with developmental delay age 3 to 6 years. This study by purpose is practical and is based on a five-step process of action research. The required information was collected in a library and field study manner through observation, questionnaire and Denver II test application and statistical data were analyzed in a descriptive manner. At first, the research sample was evaluated for performing gross motor skills and the data of Denver II test were collected and recorded. The findings showed that a significant number of children of this age group, were not capable of performing the intended skills. After need assessment and idea development, the product was designed and prototyped and provided to 36 children with developmental delay to evaluate its effect on improving motor skills. The final results showed that the designed product plays an effective role in improving the gross motor skills of 3 to 6 years old children. This multi-functional toy can be used by children in homes, rehabilitation centers, kindergartens, educational centers and all indoor and outdoor spaces.