Working motor skills in children with autism spectrum disorder through soccer

Abstract

Currently, it is evident that the participation in physical and sporting activities of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is limited due to the characteristics of the diagnosis itself. This research arose from the need to analyse the effect that sports practice has on the development of motor skills in children aged between six and 12 years with a diagnosis of ASD (level 1). A total of 13 children with ASD aged six to 10 years (M=7.23 years; SD= 1.42) participated in the sports training program. A pre-experimental, pretest-posttest design was adopted. Statistical analysis was carried out with non-parametric tests using the Wilcoxon test in order to compare the results of the group of participants at two points in time. The results of the study showed an improvement in the performance and execution of the motor skills assessed. These data can help to consider sport as a real alternative to work with this group. Likewise, this type of programme can help to promote healthy lifestyles and improve the quality of life of the participants.