MOTOR AND INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN: A REVIEW

The aim of this narrative review article is to present the effects of physical activity on the motor and cognitive development of children. Early childhood is one of the most critical periods in a child's physical and intellectual development. As much as seventy percent of the brain's connections develop during the pre-school years, these connections form the basis and framework for the child's later abilities and characteristics. A physically stimulating and varied environment undoubtedly has a significant impact on the mental functions of children. The brain is designed to learn and solve problems, initially simple, later complex. The earliest challenges that the brain needs to solve are related to movement. Children solve these problems spontaneously, intuitively, and in an unstructured manner. Later, with more organized movements, children acquire various motor skills, abilities, and sensory experiences, thereby gaining a new understanding of themselves and their surroundings. These insights and experiences will equip the child for the challenges and problems they will face later in life. Children enter into social interactions and group dynamics through movement and acquire a sense of autonomy and independence. A stimulating and varied motor environment undoubtedly has a significant impact on children's intellectual function and, thus, on the development of their potential abilities.