Effect Of Football Activities on Social Skills and The Physical Fitness of Children Aged 5–6 Years

Abstract

This study explores the strategies and effectiveness of promoting soccer education during the kindergarten stage. Forty boys aged 5–6 years participated in a 22-week soccer program. Results indicated significant improvements in various physical fitness indicators among the participating preschoolers. Specifically, significant enhancements were observed in speed during a 10-meter shuttle run, throwing a tennis ball for distance, standing long jump, bilateral jumping strength, as well as coordination and agility in walking on balance beams (p < 0.05). Additionally, as soccer involves team collaboration and mutual support to achieve common goals, it plays a crucial role in enhancing the social skills of preschoolers (p < 0.05). Moreover, with increasing national investment in youth soccer, the widespread implementation of soccer activities in kindergartens and elementary schools has become an inevitable trend.