Exercise and Asperger's/Autism

Another new study shows the benefits of exercise for executive functioning in overweight children ages 7-11.  The report at the Annual scientific conference of the Obesity Society made by researchers at the Medical College of Georgia state:

"Regular exercise may be a simple, important method of enhancing children's cognitive and academic development. These results may persuade educators to implement vigorous physical activity curricula during a childhood obesity epidemic," the researchers concluded.

While this study did not involve kids with spectrum disorders, I have personally observed a variety of benefits for those kids, too.  Individuals with a broad range of developmental problems are at higher risk for being overweight, which not only makes them feel lousy and adversely affects their health, but also further isolates them socially.  We've tried yoga in the past as well, but I think exercise deserves a close look for affected kids and adults.

Comments

[Larry Loganbill]

They're having incredible success with Asberger's kids taking them
surfing here and in California. Dr. Dorian Paskowitz' son has been
instrumental in getting this off the ground. The kids absolutely
love it. Who wouldn't...maybe one of the most fun things to do
in the world...ride waves standing up. We had many of the best
professional surfers in the world helping autistic kids surf a few months ago on O'ahu's northshore...Hale'iwa Beach.

A hui hou,
Larry Loganbill
Moloa'a Bay, Kaua'i

[Liz D.]

Many kids find a well-run martial arts program to be quite rewarding, especially if the teachers have been educated about the characteristics of the kids they will be interacting with.