Step up for Autism: Murdoch University researchers develop exercise program for kids with autism

Nine-year-old Poppy Roberts was scared to try sports. However, an individualised exercise program for children on the spectrum has given her newfound confidence. Only 14 per cent of WA children with autism get enough exercise but a new Murdoch University program — Step up for Autism — is changing this. Both kids and families were directly involved in the design of an individualised eight-week exercise program. It aims to minimise the barriers that often stop children with autism from joining team sports or even playing on playgrounds. Step up for Autism research officer Stephanie Bovell said the benefits of the program far exceeded just being more physically active. “As the researchers going into an exercise program we were very focused on the skills to be gained because perhaps these kids hadn’t been exposed to or hadn’t had a go at certain skills,” she said. “But what we’ve seen as an outcome is some of those skills have improved but it’s been more about confidence, that level of enjoyment and motivation to come to these sessions every week, which for a lot of these kids, has not happened with other programs.” For Poppy, who has autism and selective mutism, the program boosted confidence and she became more sociable. “Poppy can’t talk to some people, she has selective mutism, but the minute she came here she was comfortable because they’re kind and respectful and understand there is some things these kids just can’t do,” her nan Kaye Scott said. “This has improved not only her abilities but her whole confidence, demeanour, and willingness to try anything.” The program was possible through the help of a Hospital Research Foundation Group grant and Telethon funds.