The Motor-Proficiency-Test for children between 4 and 6 years of age (MOT 4–6): An investigation of its suitability in Greece

Given the negative influence of motor difficulties on people's quality of life their early identification seems to be crucial and consequently the information provided by a sound assessment tool is of great importance. The aim of this study was to examine the suitability of the MOT 4–6 (Zimmer & Volkamer, 1987) for use with preschoolers in Greece. Seven hundred and seventy-eight Greek children aged 48–71 months participated in the study. The two-way ANOVA used on total MOT performance revealed significant differences among the age groups formed in preschool age within Greeks, while boys’ and girls’ scores were quite similar. From the comparisons of Greeks’ scores with the German standardization sample's ones, statistically significant differences were found in two age groups. However according to the Cohen's d effect size they were not of great importance. The distribution of Greeks’ scores according to the test cut-offs, revealed that the MOT can differentiate all levels of performance, although a slight deviation from the distribution of Germans’ scores was noticed. Finally, both the test–retest reliability and internal consistency of the test were found to be excellent. The MOT 4–6 seems to be a valuable motor assessment tool for Greek preschoolers. Regarding its norms, despite the minor differences that were noticed between the motor development of Greek and German preschoolers, their adjustment was thought to be unnecessary. Instead of lowering the norms, efforts for preventing the motor performance decline should be enhanced.

► MOT TRS differentiates the performance of 6-month age groups in Greek preschoolers.
► MOT MQ classifies the whole performance range of Greek preschoolers.
► Differences between Greeks’ and Germans’ performance were not of practical significance.
► Test–retest reliability and internal consistency of MOT are sufficiently supported.
► Lowering of MOT 4–6 norms for their use in Greece is not considered essential.