Effects of Motor Skills and Family Environment on the Development of Coordination Ability in Preschool Children Aged 3 to 5 Years:A One-year Follow-up Study

To explore the development of motor skills and coordination ability in 3~5 years old children, and to investigate the impact of family sports environment on their coordination ability. Methods: 463 children aged 3~5 years were selected from 4 kindergartens in Beijing to conduct a follow-up survey on coordination ability, motor development and family environment. The GEE model was used to analyze the relationship between various variables. Results: During the follow-up period, there was a significant correlation between the skill level of forward sliding and single-handed racket and the development of coordination(β=0.11, P=0.001 5; β =0.15, P=0.001 2). A significant correlation was observed between the mother's educational background(bachelor's degree or above), mother's exercise level, family's support in participating physical activity and the increase of children's coordination score(P<0.05). Finally, when the children's motor skills and family environment changes were integrated into GEE model, only the level of children's motor skills and family support for children's physical activities were associated significantly. Conclusions: Coordination ability develops rapidly in 3~5 years children. The factors affecting children's coordinative development are multidimensional and complex, including the development level of some key motor skills and parenting behaviors related to exercise.