Juegos infantiles para el desarrollo de la motricidad gruesa en los niños del centro de desarrollo infantil "Semillitas".

Abstract

This research aimed to implement playground equipment to promote the development of gross motor skills in children at the "Semillitas" Child Development Center, located in the Muyuna parish of Tena canton. Through a mixed approach, non-experimental design and a census sample of 32 children, the study assessed motor skills through indicators established by MIES. Results showed that 63.9% of children are in the process of developing these skills, 34.7% have mastered them, and 1.4% have not achieved them. In response, a play environment was designed and implemented with structures such as tunnels, swings, seesaws, and climbing webs to enhance 3 balance, coordination, and muscle strength. The intervention not only improved motor development but also positively impacted cognitive and socio-emotional skills, demonstrating the effectiveness of play as a pedagogical strategy. The study concludes that the intentional planning and integration of playground equipment in educational settings is essential for promoting comprehensive early childhood development. Ongoing evaluation and continued implementation are recommended to sustain and strengthen these outcomes.