Executive functions and motor ability contribute to children’s participation in daily activities

Executive functions are crucial for efficient daily functioning. However, the contribution of executive functions to the participation in daily life activities of children, have been inadequately studied. The study aimed to examine the unique contribution of executive functions, beyond motor ability, to the diversity and independence of children’s participation. Forty-four children (5–6 years old), of whom 22 received occupational therapy services and 22 were typically developing peers, participated in the study. All children were individually evaluated using motor and executive functions’ tests; their parents completed the Children Participation Questionnaire. After controlling for motor ability, inhibitory control was the significant contributor to the child’s participation. An interaction effect of motor ability and inhibitory control significantly predicted the child’s independence level in participation. Supporting the inhibitory control ability of young children with motor difficulties may be a pathway for achieving our ultimate goal to enable and promote children’s participation.