Amir Dana Publication. The journal is scientifically sponsored by the Iranian Motor Behavior and Sport Psychology Association (IMBSPA) and the Iranian Association for Children's Games and Sports (IACGS). Physical Activity in Children 2783-5391 2 2 2025 12 01 Mixed-Method Investigation with SEM Modelling of How Home-Based Physical Activity and Fundamental Motor Skills Influence Early Motor Development in Preschool Children 80 86 236847 10.61882/pach.2025.560757.1078 EN Parvaneh Shamsipour Dehkordi Associate professor, alzahra university, Vanak, Tehran, Iran 0000-0001-7750-5734 Mandana Sangari Department of Physical Education, Islamic Azad University, Chalous Branch, Mazandaran, Iran. 0000-0002-1439-4501 Journal Article 2025 11 19 <strong>Introduction:</strong> The early motor development of preschool-aged children is shaped by a combination of environmental and behavioral influences, particularly home-based physical activity (HBPA) and fundamental motor skills (FMS).<br><strong>Objective:</strong> This research focused on exploring the relationships between HBPA, FMS, and motor competence in preschool-aged children. Additionally, it aimed to assess the mediating effect of FMS through a mixed-method approach that incorporated structural equation modeling.<br><strong>Methods:</strong> A total of 315 preschool children, aged 3 to 5 years, along with their caregivers, took part in the study. Preschool-age Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Test of Gross Motor Development-Third Edition and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 were utilized for measuring research variables. SEM and semi-structured interviews were used for data analysis.<br><strong>Results:</strong> The analysis indicated a positive correlation between HBPA (β = 0.53) and FMS (β = 0.18) with motor competence. Furthermore, FMS was found to significantly mediate the relationship between HBPA and motor competence, evidenced by an indirect effect of β = 0.33. Qualitative findings highlighted that factors such as parental involvement, opportunities for daily active play, and a supportive home environment contributed positively to the development of FMS, while constraints like limited space and excessive screen time posed significant barriers.<br><strong>Conclusion:</strong> HBPA plays a crucial role in early motor development, influencing FMS both directly and indirectly. To enhance motor competence in preschoolers, interventions should prioritize parental involvement and promote skill-oriented active play within the home environment. https://www.pachjournal.com/article_236847_d17142d16eaeb3914e7e02de15a1204b.pdf