Effectiveness of Group Games on Executive Functions Of Pre-School Children in Ahvaz

Maryam Dashadiyan¹ Saeed Moshtaghi²

1) M.A. in Educational Psychology, Psychology Department, Dezful branch, Islamic AzadUniversity, Dezful, Iran.
2) Assistance Profesoor of psychology, Psychology Department, Dezful branch, Islamic AzadUniversity, Dezful, Iran

IOI Code : XEFZ-HBABA
Publication : The Second National Conference on Psychotherapy in Iran(incpuma2.ir)
Abstract :
    Finding appropriate methods for improving executive functions in preschool children is important, because these functions influence all their future activities. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of group games on the improving executive functions of preschool children. The research method is a semi-experimental study with pretest- posttest control group design. The statistical population included all 5-6 year old children enrolled at Ahvaz kindergartens and preschool centers, among them a sample of 30 individuals were selected by convenience sampling method and based on inclusion conditions. Research instrument was behavior rating inventory of executive function (Spies, Isquith and Gioia, 2002). The experiment group received intervention program for eight 45-minute sessions, whereas the control group received no training. Data were analyzed by analysis of covariance. The findings of this study showed that the intervention of group games improved executive functions in experimental group. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that performing of group games in interesting and hierarchical sessions, gives children the opportunity to develop their skills in planning and organizing, flexibility, inhibition, and metacognition. Therefore, it can be used as a complementary approach to other training programs.

Keywords : executive functions group games preschool children