Physical activity in children with autism spectrum disorders: considerations for educational program administration

While diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is clear, misconceptions of ASD create barriers and challenges for children with ASD and their interaction in the educational environment around them. The social model of disability states people with disabilities are more limited by social constraints than actual impairment (Llewellyn and Hogan, 2000). In hopes to diminish these social constraints, continued education and progression of programs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders is essential. When observing the different teaching strategies educators used to assist children with ASD, no one educational strategy was deemed appropriate for use. Findings revealed there were no defined guidelines on how to interact with autistic children and left teachers to use their own teaching methods. Literature reflect a lack of educational strategies for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in an academic setting; at the various grade levels. One of the newer strategies to be investigated is the role of physical activity in children with ASD. Regular physical activity is highly beneficial towards the health of all children with or without disabilities. However, social and behavioral impairments leave little opportunity for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to be successful in participating in physical activity; resulting in a possible higher risk of being inactive. Exercise options such as martial arts, swimming and yoga programs have been shown to be successful for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.