The Effect of Creativity Training on Problem-solving, Continuous Attention, and Spatial Working Memory in Preschool Children

This research aimed to examine the effectiveness of a creativity training program on the executive functions of preschool children. The research method employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, one-month follow-up, and a control group. The population consisted of five to six-year-old children in the preschool stage in District One of Tehran during the academic year 2021-2022. The sample size was selected based on Cohen's table with an effect size of 0.5 and a test power of 0.8, equaling 15 participants for each group. 30 children who met the entry criteria were identified and randomly replaced in two control and experimental groups. Participants completed such computer-based tests as Hungry Donkey Task, Tower of Hanoi, Continuous Performance Test, and N-Back Spatial Working Memory. During this period, the control group followed their normal daily schedule. Data was analyzed using mixed analysis of variance. The results indicated that the creativity training program significantly influenced decision-making, problem-solving, continuous attention, and spatial working memory. It is suggested that child psychologists and people dealing with preschool children use creativity training to enhance executive functions in preschool children.