Zoom-delivered Physical Activities Can Increase Perceived Physical Activity Level in Children with Autism Spectrum...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) exhibit lower physical activity levels compared to typically developing peers.
• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated decreased physical activity in children with ASD, highlighting the need for accessible interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a 10-week Zoom-delivered physical activity program for children with ASD.
• To determine if this remote intervention could enhance physical activity engagement in children with ASD.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled study involving 22 parent-child dyads.
• The experimental group participated in 10 weeks of Zoom-delivered physical activities, while the control group did not.
• Data collected via Personal Information Form, Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire, and Semi-Structured Interviews.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in physical activity levels was observed in children with ASD who participated in the Zoom program (F=95.396, p=0.000).
• Parents reported the Zoom-delivered activities as a practical and beneficial intervention for increasing their child's physical activity.
• The effect size (η² = 0.834) indicates a large impact of the intervention.

Conclusions:

• Zoom-delivered physical activities represent a promising and effective intervention strategy for increasing physical activity in children with ASD.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefits and scalability of remote physical activity programs for this population.