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Promoting Positive Health Outcomes in an Urban Community-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Preschool Aged

Leah Ketcheson1, Kerri Staples2, Edward Andrew Pitchford3

  • 1Department of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies, Wayne State University, 5101 John C Lodge Fwy, 257 Matthaei, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA. Leah.ketcheson@wayne.edu.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|January 18, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Early intervention for children on the autism spectrum improved ball skills and fitness. Physical activity positively impacts motor skills and may be linked to autism symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Early intervention is crucial for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet health-related factors are often overlooked.
  • Physical activity and motor competence are vital for overall development in young children.
  • Health disparities can impact early development in children with ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the impact of a 12-week physical activity intervention on physical activity levels, fitness, and motor competence in children with ASD.
  • To explore the relationship between motor behavior and autism symptoms in this population.
  • To inform the design and delivery of early interventions for young children with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • A 12-week physical activity intervention was implemented with 25 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (mean age 4.67 years).
  • Evaluated changes in physical activity, fitness metrics (e.g., isometric push-up performance), and motor skills (e.g., ball skills).
  • Analyzed associations between motor skill performance and the severity of autism symptoms.

Main Results:

  • Significant improvements were observed in ball skills (p < .001) and isometric push-up performance (p = .02) post-intervention.
  • Autism symptoms showed significant negative associations with motor skills (r > -.49, p < .05).
  • The intervention demonstrated positive effects on physical capabilities.

Conclusions:

  • Physical activity interventions can enhance motor competence and fitness in young children with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Motor skill deficits are associated with autism symptoms, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
  • Findings contribute valuable insights for designing effective early interventions to address health disparities in children with ASD.

Keywords:
AutismHealthInterventionMotor behavior

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