Promoting Positive Health Outcomes in an Urban Community-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Preschool Aged Children on the Autism Spectrum
The study examined the impact of a 12-week physical activity intervention on physical activity, fitness, and motor competence in 25 preschool-aged children on the autism spectrum. Results showed significant improvements in ball skills and isometric push-up performance, along with associations between motor skills and autism symptoms. The findings contribute to understanding how to design effective early interventions for health disparities in this population.
College of Health researcher(s)
Abstract
While there is wide consensus regarding the importance of early intervention, health is rarely considered within priorities. Twenty-five children on the autism spectrum (Mage = 4.67, SD = 0.82) participated in a 12-week physical activity intervention. Primary objective was to examine impact of a physical activity intervention on physical activity, fitness and motor competence. Secondary objective was to examine associations between motor behavior and ASD symptoms. Ball skills (p < .001) and isometric push-up performance (p = .02) improved. Autism symptoms were associated with motor skills (r > − .49, p < .05). Study outcomes provide new knowledge regarding design, delivery, and measures for early interventions targeting health disparities in young children on the autism spectrum.