Encouraging Physical Activity in Children with Autism: The Key to Combating Obesity!

As childhood obesity continues to be a serious problem in many developed countries, even more so for children with autism in the United States, physical fitness is an urgent health issue for today’s children. Science has shown that even mild-to-moderate exercise confers a variety of physical and mental benefits. Perhaps most importantly, it leads to better long-term health outcomes, dramatically lowering the odds of diabetes, heart disease and many other potentially deadly illnesses. This underlines how important it is to motivate children with autism and special needs to get them physically active.

For parents of autistic children, this need to motivate children with autism to exercise is even more acute, as physical exertion often has therapeutic value along with its myriad health benefits.

Yet too many children with autism are falling woefully short in this regard. In fact, they are getting even less exercise than children who aren’t on the spectrum, placing them at greater risk for obesity. According to a 2014 study in the journal Autism Research and Treatment, children on the autism spectrum tend to be less physically active than those who are “neurotypical.”

This deficit isn’t the result of any innate limitations, however — children with autism scored evenly with other kids in every fitness capability metric except strength. Researchers believe this proves they are just as capable. Yet something is preventing them from getting enough exercise.

So how do parents and educators motivate children with autism and special needs to receive all the help they deserve? We start by providing them with the access, tools, and guidance necessary to succeed.

To that end, let’s discuss a few ideas that can help children with autism to become more active.

Many children with autism refrain from participating in group sports and activities due to their discomfort with the social aspect. Many of these children also have an aversion to crowds and loud noises , as both can create overwhelming sensations of sensory overload.

In order to help them overcome these challenges, it’s a good idea to design an exercise plan that is sensitive to their needs. If a child is more comfortable with a solitary sport like running, encourage her to explore this interest. Forcing children to engage in physical activity that triggers bad feelings or frightening sensations can easily dissuade them from exercising altogether.

Modern-day 'digital natives' are enthusiastic supporters and avid users of technology, and this holds true for children with autism as well. Technology often receives unfair criticism, with the notion that kids are simply spending endless hours gaming in their basements. However, the reality is that numerous innovative products are now available, inspiring children to become more active and involved with the real world around them.

Wearable technology is one option. The prospect of quantifying exercise through data by wearing a Fitbit-style device might be appealing enough to encourage an autistic child to engage in more physical activity.

Additionally, interactive projection technology exists that allows for the creation of an immersive group play space. This is precisely the sort of fun activity that can help children with autism get more exercise — without even realizing they’re doing so.

Almost every child benefits from structure, or the creation of a routine. This is how good habits are instilled. Many children with autism are particularly in need of a structured environment, as the predictable routine that’s created helps minimize feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.

By repeating a well-designed, highly-structured exercise program over an extended period of time, children with autism will be in the best position to benefit from the workout – and maintain it once they are no longer supervised.

There’s no reason to limit available exercise choices to mainstream group sports such as basketball or solitary workout regimens. Anything that gets a child out of the house and walking will provide some benefits.

Horseback riding, bowling, swimming, dancing or even walking around the mall are all viable options. If it helps to avoid designating this as “exercise” at all, feel free to do so. If children have fun and stay engaged, they’ll get in better shape without even realizing it.

Childhood obesity is at epidemic levels — and science has shown that children on the autism spectrum are especially vulnerable. By following the advice listed above, you can help kids with autism become more active. That, ultimately, will make them healthier and happier.

EyeClick is a world leader in interactive technology and the creator of BEAM and Obie - award-winning gaming solutions for both children and adults. EyeClick’s user-friendly technology and engaging interactive games provide unique and memorable interactive entertainment in over 15,000 locations worldwide, including McDonald’s, Marriott, NASA, and IKEA.

With just an EyeClick interactive projector and some motivated players, you can instantly turn any floor, wall, or table top into an immersive, active, and highly social experience.

EyeClick’s Education solution improves memory, problem-solving, and cooperation by providing students with a fun and effective way to learn through play.