Physical activity and executive function in Chinese preschool children: the mediating role of sleep problems

Higher levels of LPA, MVPA, and TPA were significantly associated with better executive function and fewer sleep problems in preschool children. Sleep problems play a partial mediating role in the relationship between physical activity and executive function. These findings suggest that preschool educators and parents should implement appropriate physical activity interventions to improve sleep health, ultimately fostering optimal executive function development in young children.