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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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

  • University of Manouba

    Manouba, Tunisia