The impact of motor development on typical and atypical social cognition and language: a systematic review

Background: Motor development allows infants to gain knowledge of the world but its vital role in social
development is often ignored. Method: A systematic search for papers investigating the relationship between
motor and social skills was conducted, including research in typical development and in Developmental Coordination
Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Specific Language Impairment. Results: The search identified
43 studies, many of which highlighted a significant relationship between motor skills and the
development of social cognition, language and social interactions. Conclusions: This complex relationship
requires more attention from researchers and practitioners, allowing the development of more tailored intervention
techniques for those at risk of motor, social and language difficulties.