Comparing traditional games and free play in primary school children

Comparative Effects of Traditional Play and Free Play on Motor Fitness and Social Interaction in Primary School Children

NA · Riphah International University · NCT06943222

This study tests whether playing traditional games or having free play helps kids aged 5 to 9 improve their social skills and physical fitness.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment104 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 9 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Karachi, Sindh)
Trial IDNCT06943222 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the effects of traditional games versus unstructured play on the social interaction and physical fitness of elementary school students aged 5 to 9. It aims to evaluate how these different types of play influence motor skills and social behaviors among children. A randomized clinical trial will be conducted in Sukkur schools over a duration of 10 months, involving 104 children. The Social Skills Rating Scale (SSRS) will be used to assess social interaction outcomes. The findings could provide insights into the benefits of play types for children's development.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are primary school children aged 5 to 9 who are regularly attending school and have parental consent.

Not a fit: Children with musculoskeletal, neurological, or chronic health conditions, as well as those engaged in organized sports, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how different play types contribute to children's physical health and social development.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes related to play types in child development, suggesting this approach has potential based on previous findings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must be within the age range of 5 to 9 years.
* Currently enrolled in a primary school program.
* Both male and female participants are included.
* Participants must have parental or guardian consent to participate in the study.
* Participants must be regularly attending primary school without prolonged absences

Exclusion Criteria:

* Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., poliomyelitis, muscular dystrophy).
* Neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, developmental delay).
* Orthopedic disorders (e.g., fractures, joint disorders).
* Diabetes or other metabolic syndrome conditions.
* Chronic health conditions affecting physical activity participation.
* Engaged in organized sports or structured physical activities outside of the primary school curriculum

Where this trial is running

Karachi, Sindh

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Children, Childhood, Motor skills, Social skills, Traditional games

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.