Development of language awareness children in 5–6 years old during fitness classes

In the context of martial law in Ukraine, the physical development of preschool children remains a pressing issue. A positive trend in the preschool education system is the creation of new physical education programs by educators aimed at improving health and fostering comprehensive intellectual development. Given modern stress factors, it is essential to develop programs combining physical and cognitive exercises. Phonological awareness plays a key role in shaping children’s speech and cognitive skills, reducing anxiety during learning. A critical task is developing methodological approaches to address speech defects and, based on these, foster cognitive functions. The goal is to identify linguistic characteristics in children’s development, assess their physical education practices, and determine strategies for fitness activities that correct speech impairments and mitigate stress-related symptoms. The study involved 62 children aged 5–6 years. Speech components and physical qualities were assessed using a 10-point scale. Statistical analysis was performed with the «StatSoft STATISTICA 13.3» software. An analysis of speech assessment results showed that children with speech impairments demonstrated average speech development (5–6.9 points). In terms of physical qualities, these children significantly lagged behind their healthy peers. The results shows us statistically significant differences in physical development indicators between children with speech impairments and healthy counterparts (p < 0.001). This analysis allowed us to establish a strategy for using physical education tools for children aged 5–6 years. This strategy, based on specially organized fitness activities, not only develops physical skills but also corrects speech impairments and helps alleviate stress-related symptoms.