New Study Highlights Cognitive and Behavioral Gains from Whole-Body Play in Children with Autism

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Delaware has shed light on the positive effects of engaging in whole-body movement activities for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The research aimed to explore how physical activity influences cognitive functions and behavior in young individuals with autism.

At the core of the study is the Move 2 Learn Innovation Lab, where children participate in dynamic movement games, including jumping over obstacles, dancing to music, and making musical instruments with drums and bells. These activities are designed to be fun, decision-based, and interactive, encouraging children to choose and initiate different movements.

The study divided autistic children aged 5 to 15 into two groups: one engaged in a full-body gross motor intervention, and the other participated in sedentary play such as building blocks, arts, and reading. The findings revealed that children involved in the movement-based activities exhibited significant improvements in executive functioning—skills essential for decision-making, problem-solving, and multitasking. This enhancement is believed to be partly due to increased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain crucial for higher cognitive processes.

Importantly, these positive effects were observed even when the interventions were delivered remotely via telehealth, demonstrating the versatility and accessibility of movement-based approaches. The research, published in the journal Disability and Rehabilitation, underscores how physical activity can be an effective tool for improving cognitive performance and behavior in children with autism.

The study also highlights that current occupational therapy often emphasizes fine motor and emotional skills, while gross motor challenges, which impact larger muscle groups and overall physical coordination, are frequently overlooked. Therefore, incorporating regular movement activities can not only foster cognitive growth but also support emotional regulation and reduce negative behaviors associated with ASD.

In addition to the research findings, parents and educators are encouraged to integrate more movement breaks into daily routines, especially within school settings, to boost attention, focus, and learning outcomes. For instance, a mother of two boys with autism who participated in Bhat's movement studies attested that even 20 minutes of movement daily can significantly improve their focus and daily functioning.

This research aligns with previous studies demonstrating that better executive functioning correlates with fewer repetitive and negative behaviors in children with autism. Future efforts by the researchers include expanding the study using neuroimaging techniques to further validate these behavioral outcomes. Overall, the findings support the role of physical activity as a crucial component in supporting the development and well-being of children with autism.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-reveals-cognitive-behavioral-benefits-body.html