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Fundamental Motor Skill Interventions for Children and Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum: a Literature Review

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Abstract

In addition to the core characteristics of ASD, recent research has demonstrated that children on the autism spectrum develop motor skills differently, often delayed, compared with peers. Motor skill interventions can help improve motor skills, which in turn can increase the likelihood of participating in physical activity (PA) and potential to build social skills. However, research in this area is limited. A search of several prominent databases revealed a total of five empirical studies focused on building gross motor skills for children on the autism spectrum. Although the reviewed studies varied in the delivery and focus of intervention, overall, the reviewed studies suggest a positive effect from any intervention for children on the autism spectrum. Further research in this area is necessary to better understand the most effective means of delivering a motor skill intervention.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the assistance of Dr. Luke Kelly, Dr. B. Ann Boyce, and Dr. Nancy Deutsch.

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  1. Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, & Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA

    Andrew M. Colombo-Dougovito

  2. Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Memorial Gym 223C, PO Box 400407, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA

    Martin E. Block

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During the conduct of this review, Dr. Andrew M. Colombo-Dougovito was a doctoral candidate at the University of Virginia in the Department of Kinesiology. Dr. Martin E. Block is a professor at the University of Virginia in the Department of Kinesiology.

Dr. Colombo-Dougovito is now an assistant professor at the University of North Texas in the Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, & Recreation.

This study was completed as a part of the comprehensive review process prior to the first author’s dissertation.

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Colombo-Dougovito, A.M., Block, M.E. Fundamental Motor Skill Interventions for Children and Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum: a Literature Review. Rev J Autism Dev Disord 6, 159–171 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40489-019-00161-2

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