Reforming Movement Education Preparation for Pre-service Preschool Teachers in Vocational Colleges' Preschool Education Programs: Policies, Practices, and Challenges

Movement education in early childhood is foundational to motor competence, physical literacy, and lifelong health. In China, national strategies like "Healthy China 2030" and the "Outline for Building a Strong Sports Country" mandate high-quality physical activity in preschools. However, gaps persist in preparing pre-service preschool teachers, particularly in vocational colleges that train the majority of early childhood educators. This study systematically reviews 123 studies (2005 - June 2025) to analyze how post-2022 policy reforms shaped movement education training in vocational colleges. Key findings reveal persistent issues: Curriculum misalignment with child development, limited training in inclusive and play-based pedagogies, inadequate facilities and faculty preparation, and weak kindergarten partnerships. It concludes by proposing an integrated, competency-based module aligned with physical literacy and national policies to enhance teacher self-efficacy and practices.