05 Mar Exercise and autism
The most widely used intervention programs for Autism focuses heavily on developing communication, social and general cognitive skills in our children. But new research suggests that alternative activities should be included such as sport, exercise and/or any other physical activity such as dancing or walking.
Research is showing that exercise and autism go hand in hand and that it is helping with:
- Stress reduction in the child leading to a reduction in tantrums/meltdowns
- Improved sleep patterns
- Increased transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the brain in return increasing brain-function
- Weight control and weight loss
- Improved general fitness and health levels
- Improved motor functions (gross and minor)
- Reduction in self-stimulatory behaviours such as flapping of hands
- Increase level of self-esteem, general happiness and social interaction
- Improvement in apatite and eating patterns
That is why outdoor, structured and physical play is so important to the Amazing-K team. We are focused on getting our children moving…. EXERCISING! When we learn how to move correctly and to engage in games or physical activities, our bodies and brains reap the benefits of these new experiences.
We understand that not all children on the spectrum enjoy new activities, we get that there are sensory issues and that many of our children battle with low muscle tone so be assured that our outdoor activities are designed with this in mind!
