Effects of Application of a Motor Programme on Neurological Maduration in Children

The persistence of primitive reflexes in school-age children can affect neuromotor maturation. Some studies link the persistence of primitive reflexes with specific learning difficulties, low academic performance, neurodevelopmental disorders, and behavioral problems. There are studies that suggest introducing intervention programs to help integrate the activity of these reflexes. The objective of this study is to assess the effects of implementing a motor program on the neurologic maturation of second-grade children throughout an academic year in Catalonia.

A prospective experimental longitudinal and randomized pre-post study will be conducted with two groups: Non Intervention group and intervention group, known as the INPP Movement Program Group (with daily application of the motor program), lasting for one academic year (from September '23 to June '24). Currently, a feasibility study will be conducted at a school in Valls, with a sample of 50 children, and data will be collected at the beginning and end of the academic year. The study will analyze primitive reflexes, motor skills related to balance and coordination, oculo-motor skills, and the risk of presenting dyslexia. Once the feasibility study is completed, the same study with appropriate modifications will be carried out in different schools across Catalonia during the academic year 2024 - 2025 (yet to be determined).