# Infant Motor Competence Predicts Executive Functions in Preschoolers: The Role of Sleep

## TL;DR

Better motor skills in infancy and sufficient sleep are linked to improved executive functions in preschoolers.

## Contribution

This study shows how infant motor skills and sleep quality influence preschool executive functions through cognitive development.

## Key findings

- Strong motor skills in infancy predict better executive functions in preschoolers.
- Cognitive abilities mediate the relationship between motor skills and executive functions.
- Better sleep enhances the mediating role of cognitive abilities on executive functions.

## Abstract

The theory of embodied cognition suggests that cognitive development in infancy relies on sensorimotor experiences gained through interaction with the environment. Additionally, the need for more sleep in early childhood may be linked to the development of executive functions. This study examined 255 children in Beijing to investigate these ideas. Motor skills were evaluated at 6 months and 1 year old, cognitive abilities at 2 years old, and executive functions at 3 years old. The results showed that strong motor skills in infancy predicted better executive functions in preschool, and this relationship was fully mediated by cognitive abilities. Furthermore, the mediating effects of cognitive abilities on executive functions were stronger in preschoolers with more and better sleep. In conclusion, motor competence and sufficient sleep are crucial for the development of executive function.