SETU recently launched a free physical activity, after-school programme for autistic children that takes place weekly at its Carlow campus.
The programme is open to the public and is designed specifically for autistic children who may have difficulties finding community-based physical activities or sport programmes adapted to their specific needs
Spreading Awareness
Developed by academic staff and postgraduate student, Edel Ryan, from SETU’s Autism Research Group, and led by Dr Sharon Kinsella, the programme aims to increase the fundamental movement skills of autistic children. The programme also aims to increase awareness of the significant benefits of physical activity for those with autism and identify ways to support local autistic children.
Dr Sharon Kinsella, SETU Lecturer, explained the genesis of the programme saying, “The Physical Activity Programme for autistic children was developed by a team of researchers here at SETU, the University of Limerick, and Cardiff Metropolitan University, as a means to provide support to children with autism and their families.”
The benefits of physical activity
Edel Ryan, a postgraduate researcher at SETU stated, “Autistic children are often unable to take part in after-school sporting activities due to their varying needs, and as such, they miss out on the benefits of physical activity. Adapting the physical activity to the individual needs of the children means that they can enjoy the health benefits of physical exercise while also getting to socialise more with other children.”
Dr Dean McDonnell, SETU Lecturer, explained that, “Movement is important for all children, but the benefit for autistic children is significant as studies show children with autism are less likely to engage in physical activity and they do not develop their fundamental movement skills at the same pace as their non-autistic peers. By engaging in more exercise, children diagnosed with autism can improve their communication, social, and cognitive functioning. Notably, there is also an improvement in the development of their motor skills, an increase in focus, and a decrease in repetitive behaviours.”
Providing community
Dr Kinsella emphasised the additional benefits for parents and caregivers stating, “Programmes like this also benefit parents who can come together with other parents of autistic children and find community as they navigate what can often be a very isolating caring role.”
What to expect
The programme takes place at SETU’s Barrow Centre every week and is run free of charge for participants. Participants engage in games using hula hoops, softballs, bean bags, and other adaptive equipment. Children will also have access to a sensory room to help relieve stress.
The programme focuses on developing locomotor skills like running, jumping, and skipping, while also focusing on object-controlled tasks, such as throwing, catching, and kicking. Additionally, the programme will aim to develop balance skills. Using varied equipment and toys, participants can better tackle everyday tasks, both as a child and in later life.
When and where
The next block of the programme will begin after Christmas, running after school hours at SETU’s Kilkenny Road Campus in Carlow. Sessions run on weekday evenings, with children being allocated a session depending on their age.
For more information on the Physical Activity Programme and how to sign up, email [email protected] or click here.