FAMILY ENVIRONMENT AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR FOR THE PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

Daily locomotor activity and proper nutrition influence the normal development of muscles, joints and system of children. They provide beneficial stimuli for the growing skeleton and postural control. The aim of the present study was to investigate and analyse the lifestyle and locomotor habits in the family by means of a survey and thorough examination of children. Material/Methods: Within the framework of the screening studies on the physical development of preschool children conducted in the Stara Zagora municipality, a survey with the major part of the parents of children with postural abnormalities was also carried out. Of the 773 parents who participated in the survey, 77.7% were women. The families in the age group of 35 to 45 years (49.1%) and 25 to 35 years (43.7%) were predominant. Results: The motivation for sport of the surveyed parents is an important part of the survey. The main incentive for 82.8% of families engaged in sports was to maintain and improve their health. Regarding the frequency of sports activities, the largest group (36.3%) declared engagement in such activities 2-3 times a week. Healthy nutrition is associated with proper musculoskeletal development.