What is the 4ST?

A scientifically validated test providing insight into the motor development of children, developed by Wim van Gelder and Hans Stroes (Alles in Beweging) over more than 30 years.

Purpose of the 4ST

To monitor and purposefully guide the motor development of the child
To predict the participation level of children in physical education
To identify at-risk children at an early stage
To identify gifted children at an early stage
To provide an evidence-based foundation for effective intervention or support

The strength and added value of the 4ST lies, beyond its validity, in the simplicity and speed of administration, allowing the tests to be conducted within a regular physical education lesson.

The 4 Skills

The 4ST assesses the three domains of motor skills separately:

Locomotor	Object Control	Balance
Travelling and dynamic movement patterns	Eye-hand/body coordination with an object	Both static (stationary) and dynamic (in motion)

Because each domain can be measured independently, it is possible to draw targeted conclusions about a child's specific strengths and areas for development.

The components of the 4ST are not equal in screening power. They form a continuum: each successive component identifies a greater proportion of children with a developmental delay.

The table below provides an overview of the test components and the percentage of children with a motor developmental delay identified by each component. Combining multiple components increases the comprehensiveness of the assessment.

Test Component	Motor Domain	Screening Rate
Hop-Power	Locomotor / Balance (dynamic)	70%
Bouncing	Locomotor / Object Control	80%
Static Balance	Balance (static)	90%
Hop-Coordination	Locomotor / Balance (dynamic)	100%

In practice: Start with the Hopping Test (Hop – Power). This already provides a valid indication of motor proficiency. Administration takes 1 to 2 minutes per child, with no special equipment required. Then continue testing the components that require attention, following the order above.

Insights and Standardisation

The result of each test component is expressed in months ahead of or behind the age norm, and as a traffic light score (green – amber – red).

Developmental Age Score

The developmental age score is benchmarked against the age norm. This norm is based on 80% of children achieving the relevant level. In other words: 80% of 7-year-old children reach the level expected of a 7-year-old.

Traffic Light Model

In addition, both the individual test components and the overall result are expressed as a traffic light score. This indicates the level of support required.

● Green

No concern, development on track

● Amber

Attention recommended, monitor development

● Red

Elevated level of concern, action required