Playtime with purpose: study tests if active games sharpen young minds
NCT ID NCT07488286
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This completed study looked at whether an 8-week program of playful, mentally engaging physical activities could improve executive functions (like self-control and memory) and school readiness in 48 preschool children. One group did the special program, while the other had standard physical education. The goal was to see if combining movement with thinking challenges gives kids an extra boost before starting school.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- cognitively enriched playful physical activity program
- What this could lead to
- If the program works, it could point toward simple, fun ways to improve thinking skills and school readiness in young children.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 48 children. Results may not apply to all preschoolers, and the effects might be small or short-lived.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Manouba
Manouba, Tunisia
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