Gender-Based Preferences in Movement Activities among Young Children: A Human Movement Approach
Mulibana Phumudzo 
, Matodzi G Sikhwari & Thizwilondi J. Mudau
Issue: Vol.6 No.5 Issue Article 11 pp. 512-525
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256511 | Published online 11th April, 2025
© 2025 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Movement activities are crucial in early childhood development, shaping cognitive, physical, and social skills. The influence of gender on activity preferences and participation, particularly within the human movement, remains underexplored. Through a human movement framework, this study investigates gender-based preferences in movement activities among preschool children (ages 3-6) in diverse educational settings. Grounded in human movement and gender studies, the study examines how physical activity impacts children’s development and how gender shapes movement choices. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing structured observations and teacher interviews. The study population included preschool children, with participants selected through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis identified patterns in activity preferences, including team games, free play, and structured exercises. Findings indicate distinct gender-based preferences: boys favour activities emphasizing strength and speed, while girls prefer those requiring balance, coordination, and rhythm. Sociocultural influences, including parental expectations and early exposure to gendered activities, shape these preferences. The study incorporated member checks, peer debriefing, and detailed field notes to ensure trustworthiness. Ethical considerations included obtaining informed consent and maintaining confidentiality. The study recommends implementing gender-inclusive movement programs in early childhood education to challenge stereotypes and promote equal participation. Human movement programs should be designed to enhance physical competence for all children. The findings emphasize the need for inclusive movement activities that address gender biases and support holistic development. The findings from this article contribute to a greater understanding of how gender-based preferences in movement activities influence early childhood development.
Keywords: Gender differences, Human movement, Movement activities, Early childhood, Motor skill development.
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Dr. Phumudzo Mulibana is a Lecturer at the University of Venda’s Department of Biokinetics, Recreation, and Sport Science in South Africa. He holds a PhD in Sport, Recreation, and Exercise Science from the University of Western Cape, a Master’s in Sport Management from the University of Johannesburg, and a Bachelor’s in Recreation and Leisure Studies from the University of Venda. With over ten years of experience in higher education, his expertise lies in recreation programming and sports management, particularly within indigenous communities. His research focuses on the transformative potential of Indigenous games and their role in Sport for Development. Dr. Mulibana has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed journals and serves on various committees within the University of Venda’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Dr. Matodzi G. Sikhwari is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Early Childhood Education at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou, South Africa. He is a qualified Foundation Phase teacher and holds an M.A., M.Ed., and PhD from Stellenbosch University. His research interests include Educational Linguistics, Gender and Sexuality, and Home Language Teaching. Dr. Sikhwari specializes in Linguistics and Education Policy Studies.
Dr. Thizwilondi Josephine Mudau is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Youth Studies, School of Human and Social Sciences, University of Venda, South Africa.
Phumudzo, Mulibana, Matodzi G. Sikhwari and Thizwilondi J. Mudau. “Gender-Based Preferences in Movement Activities among Young Children: A Human Movement Approach,” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 6, no.5 (2025): 512-525. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256511
© 2025 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
