Ideas to Promote Exercise with Autistic Children
It can be difficult to pry any children away from their phones long enough to get them to exercise. For children with autism, this challenge can be even greater.
According to a recent article published by the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, children with autism tend to get less exercise than their typically developing peers. This discrepancy can be attributed to a range of factors, including “physical limitations, lack of interest, or social, behavioral, and communication problems.” However, the authors emphasize that promoting exercise with autistic children can lead to a much healthier and happier lifestyle in the long-run.
The multi-faceted benefits
Exercise isn’t just about improving fitness, though. For children with autism, regular physical activity can have wide-ranging positive effects:
Improved motor skills, including jumping, running and throwing.
Better behavior, with a reduction of impulsive actions.
Enhanced physical health, especiall to maintain healthy weight.
Improved sleep quality and quantity.
Better balance and coordination.
Boosted mental stability, including mood, alertness and concentration.
Practical strategies for parents and caregivers
The article’s authors outline five key strategies to encourage physical activity for children with autism:
Integrate exercise into daily routines: Start simply by incorporating activities like “afternoon walks, ball play, and having dance breaks during television commercials.”
Visit local parks: Parks offer great opportunities for outdoor exploration and sensory experiences.
Focus on core exercises: Children with autism often have weak trunk muscles. Simple activities such as “bear crawls, downward dog pose, or even sit-ups” can help strengthen a child’s core.
Encourage jumping: This whole-body activity is excellent for strengthening and can provide what they call “soothing or stimulating sensory input.”
Participate in community activities: Many communities offer adapted sports programs specifically for children with autism or other developmental disabilities. These programs provide physical exercise as well as support social and communication skills.
The authors emphasize the importance of starting with small, achievable goals to ensure that exercise becomes integrated into a child’s daily routine. It’s crucial to remember that exercise should be fun for children, so it can be helpful to use some creativity in planning the activities and using various types of equipment or devices.
By implementing these ideas and understanding the unique needs of children with autism, parents and caregivers can help foster a love for physical activity that will benefit these children throughout their lives. As the article states, “Any additional movement added to a child’s life is beneficial.” So, encourage autistic children to give the electronics a rest while the get moving.
Source: ”5 Ways to Promote Exercise in Children with Autism,” by Madelyn Debski and Donna Wolcott, PT. University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment. March 18, 2024. https: //autismpsychiatry.ufl.edu/2024/03/18/5-ways to-promote-exercise-in-children-with-autism