The effectiveness of motor learning through the Montessori approach in improving early childhood literacy skills

Andra Rizky Putra, Nurul Ihsan, Masrun, Donal Syafrianto, Yogi Arnaldo Putra, Firunika Intan Cahyani

 

Andra Rizky Putra, Nurul Ihsan, Masrun, Donal Syafrianto, Yogi Arnaldo Putra, Firunika Intan Cahyani – The effectiveness of motor learning through the Montessori approach in improving early childhood literacy skills –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 97-103

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D19BUBR

Abstract
Introduction. Low motor skills lead to low cognitive and affective abilities in children. This research focuses on the effectiveness of motor learning through educational game activities with the Montessori approach to improve preschool children’s reading, writing, and counting skills. The basis of this research problem is the impact of technological advances, especially in the era of globalization, where children are more dominant in using digital games than engaging in activities that can improve motor skills.
The study aims. To explore how the effectiveness of the Montessori method can enhance the understanding of reading, mathematics, and science concepts in early childhood, especially those aged 3–6 years.
Materials and methods. This study was conducted in two cycles using mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative research) at Kiddyland Gym and Preschool, involving 20 children aged 3–6 years. The research used a mixed methods approach, including surveys and interviews. The research instruments used educational games (motor learning) such as storytelling with dance movements adapted to the story’s theme, and number games where children performed an obstacle course game aimed at improving cognitive abilities related to numbers and simple calculations. Finally, children were taught finger painting to enhance fine motor skills while learning science through colour media.
Results. The results showed that (1) children enthusiastically sang and moved to the song Baby Shark, which attracted their attention in a fun way. (2) In the obstacle game, despite passing through obstacles, the children remained focused on answering questions from the researcher with the trainer’s guidance, even doing more repetitions than planned. (3) The finger painting activity encouraged some children to be creative with their hands, although some felt uncomfortable with the coloured dirt. (4) The storytelling activity with interactive dance served as a fun communication medium between children and trainers and enhanced language learning.
Conclusion. This research concludes that educational games involving physical movement are the best choice for improving children’s reading, counting, science experiences, and socialization through the Montessori approach.

Key words
motor learning, cognitive, science, educational games, early childhood

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Exercise for success: how fitness boosts high school students’ minds and moods

Baharuddin Hasan, Ardo Okilanda, Dede Dwiansyah Putra, Yogi Arnaldo Putra, Alonzo L Mortejo

Baharuddin Hasan, Ardo Okilanda, Dede Dwiansyah Putra, Yogi Arnaldo Putra, Alonzo L Mortejo – Exercise for success: how fitness boosts high school students’ minds and moods – Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(2); 280-286

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG5608O1J

Abstract
This study aims to investigate the intricate connections between physical fitness, cognitive performance, and emotional well-being among senior high school students. The objective is to gain a detailed understanding of the potential effects of organised physical fitness programmes in an educational setting. The main goal is to investigate the relationships between distinct aspects of physical fitness, including cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility, and their impact on cognitive and emotional outcomes. To achieve these goals, a purposive sampling technique was used to choose 33 senior high school students. The selection process took into account criteria such as age, gender, and educational background to ensure varied representation. Participants engaged in a carefully planned and organised physical fitness programme that included aerobic workouts, strength training, and flexibility routines. The programme was consistently implemented in a controlled atmosphere. Preliminary evaluations of physical fitness, cognitive capacities, and emotional welfare were carried out before the intervention, setting a benchmark for further studies. The pre- and post-intervention evaluations encompassed standardised assessments of cognitive ability, physical fitness measurements (including cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility), and self-report questionnaires measuring emotional well-being. Statistical techniques, such as paired-sample t-tests and correlation analyses, were used to detect significant changes and relationships. The findings demonstrated substantial enhancements in memory capacity, attention span, and problem-solving abilities following the training. Participants demonstrated improved cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility, indicating favable physical results. The self-reported emotional well-being showed a significant augmentation. Correlation analyses revealed significant connections between cardiovascular fitness and memory capacity, strength and attention span, flexibility, and problem-solving skills, indicating complex connections between physical fitness and cognitive function. Moreover, notable associations were seen among cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and emotional well-being, underscoring the potential psychosomatic advantages of well-organised physical training programmes.
Keywords
physical fitness, cognitive performance, emotional well-being
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