In gymnastics, it is important to allow children time to feel comfortable with the skill before they attempt to execute it (i.e., one child may approach the end of the beam and jump cautiously, where another child may take quick steps with no hesitation when jumping). Gymnastics instructors can organize and shape each learning opportunity to correlate with each child’s targeted learning goal(s) while allowing for additional exploratory time. Gymnastics also provides a learning environment for children with ASD by providing creative approaches for teaching each child new skills. manipulating a hula hoop) are developed through gymnastics skills such as running and jumping on the springboard into the foam pit, climbing a rope, and other related activities. running, climbing, jumping) and fine motor skills (i.e. The sport of gymnastics provides a sensory-rich environment while simultaneously using physical exercise to develop fine and gross motor skills in children with ASD. Interaction with other teammates and coaches allows for increased appropriate use of paralinguistic behaviors such as taking turns, listening and following directions, making verbal requests, and making eye contact with peers. All of these interactions will have a substantial impact on the language and speech development of each child with ASD. gym) where they begin to experience a wide range of opportunities to communicate. Some of the ways that this can be performed is through modeling gymnastics elements, taking advantage of teachable moments, and providing positive reinforcement aligned with instruction.Īs children with ASD continue to develop their social skills, they transition from home to school settings and other environments (e.g. In addition to skills that initiate brain development, it is important to nurture and reinforce positive mental qualities. The sport of gymnastics provides a highly structured and organized environment in which a child with ASD is able to learn at his/her own pace. Children with ASD have the opportunity to develop the vestibular system and increase spatial awareness through various connections that the brain is building when performing routines on different apparatus that involve using various gymnastic skills. Learning to focus in the gym can allow for increased attention to tasks outside of the sport of gymnastics.
Gymnastics is a sport that provides an enriching environment filled with opportunities for sharpening the mind by stimulating the brain, fostering social skills, and strengthening gross and fine motor skills, while providing children with ASD an alternative method for learning and developing new skills.Ĭoncentration or focus is required in each skill that is executed in the sport of gymnastics. The sport of gymnastics can provide children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) access to a differentiated approach, which potentially can create a model program to meet each child’s individual needs in a unique and effective manner.
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