This study targeted to examine the effect of the ToyBox-intervention, a kindergarten-based, family-involved intervention, aiming to improve preschooler's energy-related behaviours (eg, physical activity) on motor performance ability. Physical activity sessions, classroom activities, environmental changes and tools for parents were the components of the 1-year intervention. The intervention and control were cluster-randomised, and children's anthropometry and two motor test items (jumping from side to side, JSS and standing long jump, SLJ) were assessed. A total of 1,293 (4.6 +/- 0.69 years; 52% boys) from 45 kindergartens in Germany were included (intervention n = 863; contro, n = 430). The effect was assessed using generalised estimating equation. The intervention group showed a better improvement in JSS (estimate 2.19 jumps, p = 0.01) and tended to improve better in SLJ (estimate 2.73 cm, p = 0.08). The intervention was more effective in boys with respect to SLJ (p of interaction effect = 0.01). Children aged < 4.5 years did not show a significant benefit while older children improved (JSS estimate 3.38 jumps, p = 0.004; SLJ estimate 4.18 cm, p = 0.04). Children with low socio-economic status improved in JSS (estimate 5.98 jumps, p = 0.0001). The ToyBox-intervention offers an effective strategy to improve specific components of motor performance ability in early childhood. Future programmes should consider additional strategies specifically targeting girls and younger aged children.

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