Assessment of younger schoolchildren's engagement in play activity and factors affecting its development

In modern society, the digitalization of education, increased screen time, and decreased interest in active leisure lead to a reduction in children's physical activity levels. The aim of the article is to analyze the level of younger schoolchildren's engagement in play activity and determine its impact on the development of key competencies of the New Ukrainian School (NUS). An online survey was conducted among 162 students in grades 1-4 to determine the level of schoolchildren's engagement in play activity and identify key factors affecting its development in the physical education process. It was found that most younger schoolchildren are actively engaged in play activity, which positively affects their physical, social, and emotional development. Students prefer team games and motor activities that contribute to the formation of key competencies of the NUS. A significant portion of schoolchildren regularly spend time outdoors and participate in physical activities, which is a positive trend for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Aspects requiring additional attention were identified: 27.3% of students spend 2 to 3 hours daily on gadgets; 12.3% of students go outside several times a week; 11.5% of students sometimes play games outdoors, and 5.4% do so rarely; 9.1% of students never invent their own games or new rules; 0.8% of students never play with friends or family. Conclusion: The importance of integrating innovative methods and play technologies into the physical education process in primary school is substantiated, which will enhance students' motivation for physical education and develop their play competence.