Movement and rhythm review maps gaps in children's cognition research
The review describes where studies are concentrated and what remains underexplored; it does not supply a pooled estimate of cognitive benefit.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Most included studies examined complex coordinated movement, while fewer studied rhythm or interventions combining both elements. Research focused mainly on early primary school children and executive function. This map identifies what has been studied and where evidence is sparse; it does not establish that any activity improves cognition or outperforms another.
The studies included randomized, quasi-experimental and single-group designs. The abstract reports the distribution of research rather than effect estimates, so it cannot establish the size or reliability of cognitive benefits.
What the map covers
The review covered interventions with explicit rhythmic or coordinated movement components, such as music, structured physical activity, dance and martial arts. Its purpose was to organize the evaluation literature and guide future research.
Where evidence is missing
The authors identified a need for more rigorous randomized evaluations, more programs combining rhythm with coordinated movement, and a broader range of cognitive measures. Memory was highlighted as an outcome needing wider attention.
The original publication
A Systematic Review and Evidence Gap Map Evaluation of Rhythmic and/or Complex Movement Interventions and Child Cognitive Outcomes.
Theroux BM, Eggins E, Paynter J et al.
Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41076509
- Record checked
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