Construct Validity of the MOBAK-KG Test for the Assessment of Basic Motor Competencies in Colombian Preschoolers

The development of motor competence (MC) is a key objective in preschool education. It is essential to assess MC from a pedagogical perspective using valid and applicable instruments in educational settings. This study aimed to validate the MOBAK-KG test in Colombian preschool children and to describe their motor performance. The sample consisted of 495 children from public schools in Bogotá, Colombia (48.1% girls; M = 5.8 years, SD = 0.60). Factorial validity of the MOBAK-KG test and its correlations with sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) were examined. Confirmatory factor analysis of eight MOBAK-KG items supported a bifactorial structure with object control and self-movement as dimensions (χ2 = 33.55; df = 19; p = 0.021; CFI = 0.959; RMSEA = 0.039). Including the covariates yielded significant associations in basic motor competencies (χ2 = 67.61; df = 33; p = 0.0004; CFI = 0.941; RMSEA = 0.046). Results showed sex differences (boys performed better in object control), BMI (negatively related to self-movement), and age (older children performed better). This study demonstrates that the MOBAK-KG test provides a feasible, educationally oriented assessment tool for preschool settings in Colombia. Moreover, it underscores the importance of considering factors such as sex, BMI, and age in the development of motor skills among children.