Examining the link between motor skills and sensory processing in children aged 4 to 11

Association Between Motor Skills and Sensory Profiles in Children With Typical and Atypical Development Aged 4 to 11 Years: A Cross-Sectional Observational Case-Control Study

Observational University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia · NCT06764810

This study looks at how motor skills and sensory processing are connected in children aged 4 to 11, including those with conditions like Autism, ADHD, and Developmental Coordination Disorder.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages4 Years to 11 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Vic - Central University of Catalonia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Vic)
Trial IDNCT06764810 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between motor skills and sensory processing in children aged 4 to 11 years, focusing on those with typical and atypical neurodevelopment, including conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). The study will follow a cross-sectional case-control design, adhering to STROBE guidelines for methodological rigor. Participants will be recruited from specialized centers, and the study will evaluate how motor skills correlate with sensory profiles in the specified age group.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 4 to 11 years with either typical development or diagnosed conditions such as ASD, ADHD, or DCD.

Not a fit: Patients with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities, neurological disorders, or severe behavioral and mental health disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how motor skills and sensory processing are interconnected, potentially leading to improved interventions for children with developmental disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While research in this area is limited, similar studies have suggested potential associations between motor skills and sensory processing, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children aged 4 to 11 years.
* Typical or atypical neurodevelopment, defined as follows:
* ASD: Subclinical symptoms or Level 1 diagnosis.
* ADHD: Predominantly inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, or combined presentation. For children under 6, typical symptoms of the disorder (e.g., impulsivity, hyperactivity).
* DCD: Diagnosed or meeting the following criteria:

  * Motor skills below age expectations.
  * Significant impact on daily activities or school performance.
  * Difficulties not attributable to another condition.
* Parental/legal guardian consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Moderate to severe intellectual disability (IQ ≤ 51).
* Neurological disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy) or syndromes.
* Severe visual and/or auditory impairments.
* Severe behavioral disorders.
* Severe mental health disorders (e.g., depression, severe anxiety).

Where this trial is running

Vic

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.
Conditions Developmental DisabilityAutism Spectrum DisorderDevelopment Coordination DisorderAttention Deficit Disorder With HyperactivityTypical Developmentmotor skills disordersphysical therapy modalitiespediatrics
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.