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How Do Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Affect Motor Competence in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
S Thomas1, L M Barnett2,3, N Papadopoulos1
1Deakin Child Study Centre, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Melbourne, VIC, 3125, Australia.
Insights
Young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) show poorer motor skills, except in manual dexterity and ball skills. Physical activity and sedentary behavior may impact motor development in all children.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is associated with motor impairments in older children.
- Limited research exists on motor competence in preschool-aged children with ASD.
- Early identification and intervention for motor delays are crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare motor competence in preschool-aged children with and without ASD.
- To explore the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and motor skills in this age group.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 34 children aged 4-7 years (17 with ASD, 17 without).
- Assessment of overall motor competence using standardized measures.
- Evaluation of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB).
Main Results:
- Children with ASD demonstrated significantly poorer performance across most motor competence measures.
- No significant differences were found in MABC-2 manual dexterity and ball skills subscales between groups.
- Physical activity and sedentary behavior levels showed potential influence on motor skills, irrespective of ASD diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Preschoolers with ASD exhibit widespread motor skill deficits, highlighting the need for early intervention.
- Targeting physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior may support motor development in children with ASD.
- Further research is needed to understand the specific roles of PA and SB in early motor development for children with ASD.
Abstract:
Older children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have high levels of motor impairment, however we are unsure if similar patterns exist in young children. This study aimed to investigate motor competence in four-to-seven-year-old children with (n = 17) and without (n = 17) ASD. A series of ANOVAS indicated children with ASD performed significantly poorer on all measures of motor competence, except MABC-2 manual dexterity and ball skills subscales. Results indicate that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) may influence motor competence, regardless of diagnosis. Establishing appropriate levels of engagement in moderate-to-vigorous PA and SB during early school years is important for the development of all children and may be an important early intervention avenue for motor impairment in children with ASD.
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