INVESTIGATING THE IMPACTS OF MUSIC AND MOVEMENT ON GROSS MOTOR SKILLS OF PRESCHOOLERS IN IBADAN SOUTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Abstract: This study investigated the impacts of music and movement activities on the gross motor skills, physical coordination, and balance of preschool children in Ibadan South West. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving an intervention group that participated in structured music and movement sessions and a control group that followed the standard preschool curriculum. Preschool children aged 3 to 5 years from selected institutions were randomly assigned to the groups. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using standardized instruments, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired-samples t-tests, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The findings revealed statistically significant improvements in the intervention group’s gross motor skills, coordination, and balance compared to the control group. These results support the integration of music and movement activities into early childhood curricula to enhance motor development. The study also underscored the need for teacher training, standardized assessment tools, and longitudinal research to optimize the benefits of such interventions.