The role of the educator/adult in supporting children of pre-school age in learning difficult tasks: the case of the Playground "Primo Sport 0246"

Abstract

The continuous decline in physical activity and the increase in sedentariness also seen in preschoolers contributes to the increased risk of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, type II diabetes, cancer in future adults. What are the possibilities for implementing children's physical activity? Can a playground contribute to the implementation of physical activity and motor and cognitive skills in kindergarten children? Research is carried out at the Parco Giochi Primo Sport 0246 in Treviso to evaluate the most effective teaching methodology to promote new motor learning in a difficult task and cognitive processes (executive functions). The combination of structured activity and free play, with the support (scaffolding) of a motor educator in a very difficult motor task, is more effective than free play activities alone.