Frontiers in Sports and Active Living | 2026
Authors: Çinar M.; Hassani F.
DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1759890
Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
Year: 2026
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access; Green Open Access
Cited by: 2
Introduction: Physical literacy is crucial for promoting lifelong engagement in physical activity. In response to rising childhood inactivity, this study explores the impact of traditional children's games on physical literacy within a school context. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was applied involving 60 students (aged 11–12) from two schools in Trabzon, Turkey. The experimental group participated in an 8-week program of culturally-rooted traditional games. The control group followed standard physical education activities. Pre- and post-test data were collected using a validated Physical Literacy Scale. Results: Statistical analyses indicated significant improvements (p <.001) in all four domains of physical literacy—physical, psychological, social, and cognitive—in the experimental group compared to the control group. Discussion: Traditional games are shown to be inclusive, culturally relevant, and effective pedagogical tools for improving physical literacy in school-aged children. Their integration into school curricula is supported as a cost-effective and holistic educational strategy. 2026 Çinar and Hassani.
active lifestyles; culturally rooted play; movement skills; physical competence; physical literacy; traditonal game