Improving cognitive skills through physical activity for preschoolers from low-income families

Feasibility and fidelity of a gross motor-based physical activity intervention on cognitive variables in preschool-age children from low socioeconomic backgrounds

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST · NIH-10818480

This study is looking at how a fun physical activity program can help preschool kids from low-income families think better and remember things more easily, by improving their movement skills through games led by their teachers.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HADLEY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10818480 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how a physical activity program focused on gross motor skills can enhance cognitive functions in preschool-age children from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The program will be implemented in preschool centers, where teachers will lead activities designed to improve motor skills, which are believed to support cognitive development. By comparing children participating in the program to those in a control group, the research aims to assess the effectiveness of this intervention on attention, self-regulation, and memory performance. The goal is to provide a structured approach to help these children overcome developmental challenges associated with their socioeconomic status.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preschool-age children (3-5 years) from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Children who are not in the preschool age range or those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive abilities and academic performance in preschoolers from low-income families.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that physical activity can positively impact cognitive development in children, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

HADLEY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.