Optimizing flexibility in 5-6-year-old preschool girls by integrating stretching exercises and a play-based approach using the “Stretching for kids” digital plat form: an experimental study

<jats:p>Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a holistic pedagogical model, which integrates stretching exercises and a play-based approach via the "Stretching for Kids" digital platform, in optimizing flexibility in 5-6-year-old preschool girls. Methods: The study was conducted using a quasi-experimental design. A total of 72 girls aged 5-6 years from six preschool educational institutions in the Andijan and Namangan regions of Uzbekistan participated. The participants were divided into an experimental group (n=36) and a control group (n=36). The experimental group followed a weekly program, training 3 times a week with each session lasting 25-30 minutes. The program integrated static and dynamic stretching exercises, playful activities based on animal imitations, and interactive video instructions via the "Stretching for Kids" web platform. Flexibility was measured using 10 standard tests (including the wrist and thumb flexibility test, "Sit-and-Reach," bridge position, and forward, right, and left splits tests), anthropometric indicators, and a comprehensive assessment system based on scores and percentage indicators. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and percentage change calculations (p &lt; 0.05). Results: Overall flexibility indicators in the experimental group improved significantly: an increase of 48.4% was observed in 5-year-olds and 52.2% in 6-year-olds (p &lt; 0.001). The most substantial improvements were recorded in the splits tests (87.0-91.8%) and the "Sit-and-Reach" test (56.16%). In the control group, the increase was minimal (5-year-olds: 6.8%; 6-year-olds: 1.17%). The differences between the groups were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Combining stretching with a game-based approach, supported by digital tools, has proven highly effective in developing flexibility in preschool-aged girls. This method is safe, motivating, and age-appropriate. The "Stretching for Kids" platform enhanced visualization, individual monitoring, and the opportunity for at-home practice. The results obtained support the implementation of the developed model into physical education classes at preschool institutions.</jats:p>