Motor Skills and Integral Health in Children and Adolescents: Keys to an Active Future

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Global Pediatric Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 August 2025 | Viewed by 1082

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of General and Specific Didactics, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig s/n Road, 03690 Alicante, Spain
Interests: global pediatric health

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of General and Specific Didactics, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig s/n Road, 03690 Alicante, Spain
Interests: global pediatric health; physical activity and sport; physical education

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of General and Specific Didactics, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig s/n Road, 03690 Alicante, Spain
Interests: physical activity and sport; physical education; sport and gender
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Motor skills are foundational to physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children and adolescents. Historically, research has underscored the role of motor skills in fostering an active lifestyle, enhancing academic performance, and promoting overall well-being. However, modern sedentary habits and digital distractions challenge this developmental pillar, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches that nurture motor skills in today’s youth.

This Special Issue seeks to explore the intersection of motor skills and integral health, addressing their impact on physical activity, mental health, and lifelong wellness. We aim to highlight groundbreaking research, from novel intervention strategies to the role of environmental and social factors in motor development.

We welcome the submission of original research, systematic reviews, and theoretical papers that delve into the assessment of motor skills and present innovative interventions, longitudinal studies, and cross-cultural perspectives. Join us in promoting an active, healthier future by advancing knowledge in this vital field.

Dr. Lilyan Mercedes Vega-Ramírez
Dr. Juan José Chinchilla
Dr. M.ª Alejandra Ávalos-Ramos
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • physical education
  • psychomotor skills
  • motor skills development
  • sedentary lifestyle
  • social determinants of health
  • wellness and mental health
  • child and adolescent health
  • lifestyle and behavior

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

15 pages, 2367 KiB  
Article
Development of the Aquatic Competence Assessment for Children (ACA-C): A Tool for Measuring Personal Aquatic Competence Index
by Rita Fonseca-Pinto and Juan Antonio Moreno Murcia
Children 2025, 12(4), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12040484 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 953
Abstract
Background: This study developed and validated the Aquatic Competence Assessment for Children (ACA-C), an instrument designed to measure personal aquatic competence index in children aged 6 to 12 years. Aquatic competence is essential for water safety and the promotion of healthy habits, yet [...] Read more.
Background: This study developed and validated the Aquatic Competence Assessment for Children (ACA-C), an instrument designed to measure personal aquatic competence index in children aged 6 to 12 years. Aquatic competence is essential for water safety and the promotion of healthy habits, yet few validated tools integrate its multiple dimensions. The ACA-C is based on an ecological approach, considering the interaction between the child and various aquatic environments, both artificial (swimming pools) and natural (seas, rivers, and lakes). It is structured into three dimensions: aquatic literacy, drowning prevention, and environmental education, facilitating its application in diverse contexts. Methods: The ACA-C was validated using the Delphi method, with experts in aquatic education and safety. Kendall’s W coefficient of concordance was employed to measure the level of agreement among judges, ensuring rigorous criteria for item selection. Additionally, pilot studies were conducted with children in controlled aquatic environments to refine the instrument’s structure and content. Results: The results demonstrated high reliability and validity of the ACA-C for assessing children’s aquatic competence. This tool enables the identification of both actual and perceived competence levels, guiding pedagogical strategies for improvement. The inclusion of environmental education reinforces a comprehensive approach, fostering safety, responsible decision making, and enjoyment of aquatic environments. Conclusions: This study provides a validated instrument for use in educational and preventive contexts, contributing to water safety and well-being. Full article
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