The health-improving potential of Ukrainian folk games and pastimes in the system of physical education of preschool children

Abstract

Abstract. The purpose of our study is to substantiate and experimentally verify the effectiveness of using Ukrainian folk games in the process of physical education of preschool children. The article examines the features of the use of Ukrainian folk games for children 5–6 years old and their impact on the physical and mental development of preschool children. The modern system of physical education of preschool children in Ukraine is in the process of constant renewal and improvement. The problem of introducing folk games into the process of physical education of preschool children is of particular importance due to the need to find effective, interesting and accessible forms of physical activity that correspond to the age characteristics of children and stimulate them to systematic physical exercises [2,4]. That is why the study of the features of the use of Ukrainian folk games in the process of physical education of preschool children is relevant and has practical significance. To achieve the goal, the following research methods were used: analysis of scientific and methodological literature, pedagogical research methods (pedagogical observation, pedagogical experiment), sociological research methods (surveys of educators), methods of mathematical processing of research results. Results. The results obtained showed that the systematic introduction of folk games contributes to an increase in the level of motor activity of children, improvement of their physical qualities and general functional state of the body. The use of game forms with national and cultural content has a positive effect on the emotional state of preschoolers, increases their motivation for physical activity, and forms a stable interest in physical education. Conclusions. An important result of the study was the establishment of the positive influence of folk outdoor games on the formation of national identity of preschool children. During the game activity, children became familiar with elements of Ukrainian culture, folk traditions, counters, song accompaniments, and symbolism, which contributed to the development of a sense of belonging to the Ukrainian people, the formation of respect for their cultural heritage, and the upbringing of national identity. The results of the formative stage of the study showed positive dynamics in the indicators of motor activity and physical fitness of children, in particular, an increase in the number of children with a high level of physical development and a decrease in the proportion of children with a low level.