Staying fit is something most people struggle with these days despite the benefits, like losing weight, lower blood pressure, better sleep, and improved insulin sensitivity – all of which help to lessen our risk of developing chronic diseases, including diabetes.
Physical activity is also good for us because when we’re moving around and getting some exercise, things like endorphins are released in our brains that mimic the effects of taking antidepressants. In other words, we feel better without taking medication that can have side effects.
When it comes to preschoolers, research suggests that physical activity has been shown to also improve their motor skills and cognition, having a positive impact on their attention, memory, behavior, and academic achievement.
All of these health benefits apply to children with autism as well. The challenge is physical activity and fitness tend to be lower in kids with autism for a variety reasons. Many children with autism lack motor skills compared to neurotypical kids, leading to poor coordination and balance. In addition, kids with autism often lack the necessary sensory, social, and communication skills that are needed to participate in team sports in a beneficial way.
Without physical activity, kids with autism are prone to being overweight. In fact, they have a 58% higher risk of developing obesity compared to their neurotypical counterparts.
Now for the good news
A lot of research has been done that suggests physical activity helps kids with autism in many surprising ways beyond fitness. Here are just a few of the ways exercise programs benefit kids with autism:
- Physical activity can provide a fun, safe setting for interacting with peers, where they can practice social skills.
- Physical activity can significantly improve muscular strength and endurance.
- Physical activity can significantly improve basic motor skills, like running, throwing, catching, and more.
- Physical activity has been shown to reduce maladaptive behaviors.
- Physical activity can enhance a child’s motor skills and coordination, leading to increased independence and improved performance in the classroom.
One study from 2021 found that 10 minutes of low- to moderate-intensity exercise produced significant and large reductions in stereotypical behaviors in children with autism, like echolalia and hand flapping. By reducing these kinds of behaviors, children can be more productive in school because they are can be more focused on learning.
Strategies for helping your child be more active
It really is amazing what a little bit of exercise on a routine basis can do for kids with autism!
Part 2 of this blog will help you get started. We’ll share some tips and insights on different strategies for getting your child more physically active, so they can be healthier and enjoy the benefits, like the ones listed above and more.
The key to developing an exercise routine for your child is to personalize it. Each child with autism has a highly individualized set of symptoms, and like ABA therapy, their exercise program and goals should be designed around those symptoms. Parental involvement is also a must to be successful!
Now is great time to get outside and enjoy the nicer weather and get in some beneficial physical activity with the whole family. It doesn’t have to be complicated. As Nike says, just do it.
To learn how ABA therapy includes programs for developing children’s motor skills and physical abilities, contact our ABA and autism experts today. We can help your child have a full, meaningful, and healthier life!
Resources
National Institutes of Health (Here and here)
