Autism in Children: Physical Development

Autism in children often results in delays in their physical development. It affects the lower brain which is responsible for the child’s balance and coordination. The muscle tone of children with autism may also be different from that of typical students.

Most of the time, both gross and fine motor activities are affected by autism. Adjusting the tightness or looseness of muscles is a job of the lower brain. Making smooth changes and transition of muscles can therefore be difficult. For these students, lack of a mental map of the body and an inability to adjust to gravity often interfere with their large motor movements.

This can result in their movements being slow or unpredictable. And, this issue often makes regular gym courses and sports difficult. That said, organized regular movement programs are very healthful for all students, especially those on the spectrum.

Autism in children also affects fine motor activities such as writing, drawing and music making.

From Professional Learning Board’s online continuing education course for teachers: Introduction to Autism