In a groundbreaking study conducted at the University of Delaware, researchers have uncovered significant improvements in executive functioning among children with autism who engage in full-body movement activities. Led by Professor Anjana Bhat, the research compared two groups of autistic children aged 5 to 15, one participating in active play and the other in sedentary activities. The findings, published in Disability and Rehabilitation, emphasize the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines for better cognitive outcomes.

A Closer Look at the Study

On the vibrant STAR Campus of the University of Delaware, nestled within the Move 2 Learn Innovation Lab, an innovative exploration unfolds under the guidance of Professor Anjana Bhat. This laboratory serves as a hub where children are encouraged to participate in dynamic activities such as leaping over obstacles or moving rhythmically to music, all while engaging their decision-making skills. In this carefully designed experiment spanning from 2020 to 2022, children were divided into two distinct groups: those engaging in whole-body movement and others partaking in seated activities like crafting or reading.

Children in the movement group performed exercises that required them to make choices, such as jumping over objects or following rhythmic patterns with music. These activities not only promoted physical agility but also enhanced their cognitive capabilities. On the other hand, the sedentary group engaged in less physically demanding tasks. The results highlighted a marked improvement in executive functioning among the movement group, attributed partly to increased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, crucial for higher-order thinking processes.

The adaptability of the intervention was further demonstrated through its effectiveness whether delivered face-to-face or via telehealth platforms like Zoom. This versatility ensures accessibility regardless of geographical constraints.

From the perspective of Kamryn Lombardi, a recent graduate turned pediatric occupational therapist, integrating movement-based activities even during fine motor skill sessions significantly boosts engagement levels. Parents like Fei Shan also attest to the transformative effects of consistent physical activity on their children’s focus and behavior outside structured environments.

Implications and Future Directions

This research underscores the necessity of embedding regular movement breaks within educational settings, particularly as students advance in age and physical education opportunities diminish. Professor Bhat advocates for greater emphasis on gross motor skill development in therapy practices targeting autistic children, suggesting potential long-term benefits extending well into adulthood.

While the immediate cognitive advantages of these interventions are evident, future studies aim to explore how these enhancements translate into everyday life scenarios beyond controlled environments. By securing federal funding for larger-scale investigations involving neuroimaging techniques, Bhat hopes to validate existing behavioral observations scientifically. Such advancements could pave the way for comprehensive therapeutic strategies addressing both physical and cognitive challenges faced by individuals with autism spectrum disorder.