Enhancing fundamental motor skills through active play : a systematic review and meta-analysis of educational contexts

This study examines the effectiveness of active play interventions to enhance Fundamental Motor Skills (FMS) in children aged 2–5 and compares different intervention modalities. It also explores the moderating role of world region and the use of recess in educational contexts. A systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis were conducted, using data from MEDLINE, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, PsycINFO, Cinahl, and SPORTdiscus up to January 2023. Clinical trials with active play interventions in educational settings were included, excluding multicomponent interventions. Eighteen studies (2816 participants; 240 effect sizes) met the criteria. The overall average treatment effect (ATE) of active play versus control was 0.07 (95% CrI −0.004–0.15). Motor skills interventions showed a significant effect (SMD = 0.16, 95% CrI 0.01–0.29), especially when integrated into recess (SMD = 0.31, 95% CrI 0.03–0.62). The effectiveness varied across regions, highlighting the need for regional consideration in implementation.