School-Based Fundamental-Motor-Skill Intervention for Children With Autism-Like Characteristics: An Exploratory Study

Adapt Phys Activ Q. 2016 Jan;33(1):66-88. doi: 10.1123/APAQ.2015-0009.

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to demonstrate the impact of a fundamental-motor-skill (FMS) intervention on the motor skills of 3- to 7-year-old children with autism-like characteristics in an early intervention classroom. A secondary purpose was to qualitatively assess the impact of the program as described by the classroom's special education teacher. All children in the classroom (N = 5) took part in an FMS intervention for two 6-wk blocks (fall 2013 and winter 2014). Motor-skill proficiency and social skills were assessed at 3 times: baseline, after Block 1 of the intervention, and after Block 2 of the intervention. In addition, an interview was conducted with the classroom teacher after Assessment 3 to draw further insights into the relative success and impact of the program. Results were analyzed through a visual analysis and presented individually. They indicated improvements in the participants' individual FMS and social-skill scores, possible improvements in declarative knowledge, and an increase in the special education teacher's readiness to teach FMS; further research with larger, controlled samples is warranted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / therapy*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Education, Special
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Skills*
  • Ontario
  • Schools
  • Social Skills*