The Impact of Physical Education on Preschoolers` Social and Emotional Competencies: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction: Due to different psychological problems during adolescence, developing social and emotional competencies from early childhood could be of special interest. The purpose is to analyse those preschool-based Physical Education (PE) intervention programs that have evaluated their effects on preschoolers’ emotional and social competencies evaluated through randomized controlled trial design. Method: A systematic review of relevant articles was performed using PubMed, Web of Sciences, and ProQuest Central on January 24, 2024. Results: From 113 studies initially found, 12 were included in the qualitative synthesis. Included studies have shown that programs developed during preschool`s PE are effective for improving social and emotional competencies. Conclusions: Working in pairs or small groups, as well as structured play, has demonstrated positive effects to enhance social competence. On the other hand, multicomponent-based activities (suggestions and activities such as role-playing) for improving self-regulation skills, planned and instructor-led exercises meant to enhance self-control, the combination of exercise-based interventions with mindfulness for improving emotional well-being and playfulness, and programming interactive lessons and support for the application of socio-emotional competency are encouraged.