Effects of Motor-Cognitive Training on Cognitive Performance and Balance in Preschool Children

Tower of Hanoi Test executive functioning

时间窗: Baseline and 8 weeks

Assesses executive functioning, including planning, problem-solving, and cognitive flexibility. Participants solve a visual puzzle by moving disks across pegs, following specific rules. Performance variables include: * Number of moves to solution * Total task completion time * Average time per move * Latency to first move (planning time)

Balance Performance

时间窗: Baseline and 8 weeks

Balance was assessed using the Sensbalance MiniBoard, a validated interactive platform that captures both static and proprioceptive balance. Two types of balance tasks were used: Static Balance Test: Participants were instructed to maintain a stable position on the balance board while keeping a ball centered within a visual target zone on the screen. The performance level (%) was calculated using the formula: (1 - Measured Sway Amplitude / Maximum Allowable Sway) × 100, indicating the participant's ability to maintain balance within defined limits.

Cognitive Function Tests

时间窗: Administered at baseline (pre-intervention) and 8 weeks (post-intervention)

Evaluates inhibitory control, a core component of executive functioning. Participants are required to respond quickly to target stimuli (e.g., "X") while inhibiting responses to non-target stimuli (e.g., "O"). Measures include: Number of correct responses (go trials) Number of commission errors (false responses to no-go trials) Reaction time (latency) to correct go stimuli Duration: \~5 minutes and 40 seconds

Tower of Hanoi Test executive functioning

时间窗: Baseline and 8 weeks

Assesses executive functioning, including planning, problem-solving, and cognitive flexibility. Participants solve a visual puzzle by moving disks across pegs, following specific rules. Performance variables include: * Number of moves to solution * Total task completion time * Average time per move * Latency to first move (planning time)

Balance Performance

时间窗: Baseline and 8 weeks

Balance was assessed using the Sensbalance MiniBoard, a validated interactive platform that captures both static and proprioceptive balance. Two types of balance tasks were used: Static Balance Test: Participants were instructed to maintain a stable position on the balance board while keeping a ball centered within a visual target zone on the screen. The performance level (%) was calculated using the formula: (1 - Measured Sway Amplitude / Maximum Allowable Sway) × 100, indicating the participant's ability to maintain balance within defined limits.