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The Impact of Team Sports on Physical, Cognitive, Social and Psychological Development in Primary School Children

Fabiola Palmiero, Federica Badii Esposito

Abstract

Scientific literature highlights how playing sport is a key factor in children's overall development. However, evidence on the effects of team sports in inclusive school settings, with pupils with Special Educational Needs and Specific Learning Disorders , is still limited. This research analyses the effects of a structured team sports intervention on a sample of 120 primary school children (aged 8-10) divided into an experimental group and a control group. The study uses a qualitative-quantitative approach with pre-test and post-test measurements using validated psychometric instruments. The results show significant improvements in the experimental group in the following domains: motor development, executive functions, social skills, and psychological well-being. Particular relevance was observed in children with SEN/SLD, who showed improvements in social participation and perceived self-efficacy.

Keywords

SportSpecial Education NeedsPrimary SchoolSocial SkillsPsychological Well-Being

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