Relevance of the Study

This dissertation research aims to identify the main pedagogical methods for developing persistence in children of primary school age (6–7 years). It focuses on determining the educational conditions that facilitate the formation of persistence in children within this age group through Horting-based physical training.

The study employs methodological approaches and criteria for assessing persistence in primary school children. It was established that the level of persistence in 6–7-year-old children depends on their physical readiness and the functional mobility of nervous processes. This age group is characterized by an initial level of volitional manifestations, as well as a significant increase in physical abilities, which can be considered a sensitive period for the development of persistence.

The research provides theoretical justification and experimental analysis of pedagogical methods for developing persistence in children through extracurricular physical training based on Horting, as well as its influence on the development of character traits such as speed, strength, endurance, and moral qualities.

This study includes the rationale, aim, objectives, object, subject, research methods, scientific novelty, and practical significance. It also provides information regarding the approbation of results and the dissertation structure.

Theoretical Background

The age of 6–7 years represents a key transitional stage in human development, marking the shift from early childhood to more conscious behavior regulation. During this period, children require special attention regarding the development of willpower and persistence, which play a crucial role throughout their future lives.

One of the most important educational challenges is the formation of volitional qualities, which enable individuals to consciously regulate their actions in accordance with goals and objectives, as well as to overcome difficulties.

Volitional qualities include persistence, perseverance, goal orientation, determination, courage, self-control, initiative, and independence.

Horting, as a sport, represents both a martial art and a comprehensive system of physical and moral education aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and positive social behavior. These qualities are closely associated with the development of persistence and goal achievement.

Educational Significance of Physical Training and Horting

Horting is a system of education based on cultural, sporting, and martial traditions. It functions as a comprehensive mechanism for the holistic development of children.

Students represent the future potential of society and will be responsible for addressing complex social and economic challenges, as well as strengthening their country’s position in the international community. Therefore, the health and education of youth are key priorities supported by national legislation, including:

• Law of Ukraine “On Physical Culture and Sport” (1993)
• State Program for Physical Culture and Sport Development in Ukraine (1996)
• Target Complex Program “Physical Education – Health of the Nation” (1998)
• Concept of Physical Education in the Educational System of Ukraine (1997)
• Decree on Physical Culture and Sport Development in Ukraine (2004)

Scientific Foundation

Numerous scholars (E.S. Vilchkovskyi, L.V. Volkov, E.P. Ilyin, K.P. Kozlova, T.Y. Krutsevych, and others) emphasize that physical exercises expand functional capabilities and develop the ability to overcome difficulties.

During physical education and sports activities, children develop essential qualities such as persistence, discipline, self-control, and perseverance (G.L. Apanasenko, L.I. Bozhovych, B.M. Shiyan, and others).

Research on volitional development has been significantly contributed to by scholars such as I.D. Bekh, L.S. Vygotsky, V.A. Ivannikov, E.P. Ilyin, K.N. Kornilov, V.A. Krutetsky, A.C. Puni, P.A. Rudik, V.I. Selivanov, B.M. Smirnov, K.D. Ushinsky, and others.

However, existing literature primarily focuses on adolescent and adult athletes, while the age-specific aspects of persistence development in children aged 6–7 remain insufficiently studied.

Research Gap

Despite extensive research in this field, several issues remain unresolved:

• Lack of unified understanding of volitional structure and mechanisms
• Insufficient methods for developing persistence in 6–7-year-old children
• Limited diagnostics for age-related volitional development
• Inadequate study of Horting-based physical education in early childhood

Thus, further scientific investigation is required.

Research Object and Subject

Object of the study: persistence in children aged 6–7 engaged in Horting training.

Subject of the study: pedagogical methods for developing persistence in children participating in Horting educational and training programs.

Aim of the Research

The aim of the study is to theoretically justify and experimentally test pedagogical methods and conditions for developing persistence in children aged 6–7 years through Horting-based physical education.

Research Hypothesis

The hypothesis assumes that the development of persistence in children aged 6–7 through Horting training is effective if:

• volitional development is integrated with motor skill formation
• physical abilities are systematically developed
• pedagogical conditions are properly structured

These conditions include:

• gradual increase of training difficulty
• clear goal setting and task structuring
• development of self-confidence
• timely feedback from the coach
• formation of self-control and self-assessment skills

Research Tasks

The study aims to:

• analyze scientific and pedagogical literature
• examine physical readiness of children aged 6–7
• develop diagnostic criteria for persistence
• study age-related dynamics of volitional development
• experimentally verify pedagogical methods in Horting training

Research Methods

The following methods were used:

• theoretical literature analysis
• pedagogical experiment
• pedagogical observation
• testing methods
• questionnaires
• expert evaluation
• anthropometric measurements
• statistical analysis

Conclusion

This study highlights that persistence in children aged 6–7 can be effectively developed through structured physical education programs such as Horting. The combination of physical training, pedagogical guidance, and motivational development creates favorable conditions for the formation of strong volitional qualities in early childhood.

EDUARD YEROMENKO