Exploring the Role of Outdoor and Structured Physical Activities in Enhancing Motor Competence in Preschool Children: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Early childhood is a crucial period for the development of motor, cognitive, and social skills. Among these, motor competence plays a key role as it forms the foundation for future physical activity and overall well-being. The aim of this systematic literature review is to explore the role of structured and unstructured outdoor physical activities in enhancing motor competence in preschool children, focusing on how these activities influence the development of motor skills and physical fitness.

The aim of this systematic literature review is to explore the role of structured and unstructured outdoor physical activities in enhancing motor competence in preschool children, focusing on how these activities influence the development of motor skills and physical fitness.

A systematic search of relevant literature was conducted in three databases: Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. Keywords related to ("exercise OR physical activity OR sports activity" AND preschoolers OR early childhood") are used to identify studies published between 2020 and 2025. After applying the exclusion criteria, 8 articles were included in the analysis. Studies were reviewed to assess the effectiveness of structured and unstructured outdoor activities in improving motor skills.

Both structured and unstructured physical activities were found to positively impact motor skills, with unstructured activities, particularly outdoor play, showing more significant benefits in improving locomotion and object control skills. Additionally, outdoor play was associated with higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), which is crucial for overall motor competence.

This review highlights the importance of integrating both structured and unstructured outdoor physical activities into preschool programs. Outdoor play, in particular, offers unique benefits by promoting diverse physical movements that enhance motor competence. Future educational and policy frameworks should emphasize creating safe, accessible outdoor play spaces to foster these benefits in early childhood.