MOVEMENT AND HEALTH: PREVENTIVE PHYSIOTHERAPY IN THE CHILD COMMUNITY

Abstract

This university outreach project, carried out at the Jardim de Deus Academic Support Center, is preventive and educational in nature, aiming to promote preventive health among children aged 5 to 12. Its goal is to foster healthy habits, prevent postural and musculoskeletal issues, and support motor development by integrating the school community with academic physiotherapy practice.

The proposal is grounded in studies highlighting the role of physiotherapy in promoting child health and preventing motor dysfunctions (Sá, 2013; Gomes et al., 2025), reinforcing the need for ongoing initiatives within school and community settings.

The activities were designed to be playful and educational, tailored to two age groups (5–7 years and 8–12 years). They included games that stimulate coordination and posture, guidance on ergonomics and healthy habits, the creation of educational materials, and monitoring of the children. Furthermore, the project seeks to strengthen the link between the university and the community, providing benefits for both the participants and the academic training of the physiotherapy students.