Psychomotor intervention programme in an inclusive preschool setting: a pilot study

Social inclusion and behaviour challenges in naturalistic settings require targeted interventions when general support is insufficient. Psychomotor interventions have integrated features suitable for preschool children; however, further research is needed to establish their effectiveness. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and social validity of a selective psychomotor intervention programme on psychomotor and socio-emotional skills of preschool children (aged 4-6 years) with autism spectrum disorder (n=4) and neurotypical development (n=17). A sequential mixed-methods pre–post study without a control group investigates the preliminary effects on neuro-psychomotor functions, social skills, and problem behaviours. Data from focus groups and observations were also explored after a 12-session group-based intervention that included expressive and action-oriented bodily experiences. A significant improvement in neuro-psychomotor functions was found (z= –3.921, p